Column: The World Needs Men Who Lead

The woman saw that the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eyes, and the tree was desirable for gaining wisdom. So she took some of its fruit and ate it; and she also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. – Genesis 3:6-7

The scripture passage above, from the Bible’s account of the Fall of Man, is sometimes used to blame Eve for what happened—but I would like to focus on four little words:

“[S]he also gave some to her husband,
who was with her.”

The Enemy’s plan to tempt and ensnare Eve unfolds right under Adam’s nose. Either he was not paying attention, or he was unconcerned. Regardless, the man whom God created to watch over creation neglected his duty to protect even his own bride—and humanity has paid the price ever since.

I want to be clear: I am not suggesting that women are incapable of protecting themselves or making good decisions, or that men are lazy or incompetent. We are all created in God’s image, and He sees us as very good. But we are also created for a purpose, and when we deny or neglect that, we suffer.

The world and the Church need men who lead. Studies show that the single most important factor in the ongoing faith life of children is the faith of their fathers. Moms often struggle heroically to bring their children to Jesus, but if dads aren’t taking their faith life seriously, kids often won’t either.

As a priest, I see that most volunteers in our church and school are women. I hear stories all the time of men who are just going through the motions of faith and family life, content to have their wives take the lead when it comes to prayer or going to Mass as a family.

But I also see what happens when men step into the role of faith leader in the family: how entire families begin to pray more together, come to Mass and Confession regularly, engage in parish life, and strive to love God and each other better. The beauty of Catholic family life—of self-sacrificial love lived out in the context of marriage and parenthood—is undeniable!

So, men, I’m calling on you to step out in faith as the leaders you are meant to be. Pray with your families, at meals and before bed. Go to Mass with your family without complaint every Sunday and Holy Day. Come to Confession to get right with God.

Then, as soon as those habits have taken root, get involved in the life of the Church. Volunteer at church events. Step up as readers or extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion to bring Jesus to others. Show your love of God and family by your actions and inspire your brothers in Christ to do the same.

Our wives and mothers have carried us for long enough. It’s time to step up! God bless you.

Father Brian Park
Pastor