Fathers are not born, but made…. The Church too needs fathers.
(Pope Francis, Apostolic Letter Patris Corde on the 150th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Saint Joseph as Patron of the Universal Church)
Many contemporary leaders have noted the crisis of fatherhood and masculinity in our Church and society. We could add to that a crisis of brotherhood, fraternity, and friendship as well. Starting and maintaining a men's ministry is no easy task, but we have a model that stretches back 2000 years and was instituted by Christ himself. Christ desired for his disciples to support one another as he says in Luke 22:31-32, “Simon, Simon, behold Satan has demanded to sift all of you like wheat, but I have prayed that your own faith may not fail, and once you have turned back, you must strengthen your brethren.”
Jesus is calling all men to discipleship, greatness, and fidelity. May men of the Archdiocese of Atlanta and beyond join together to strengthen and encourage one another in their roles and vocations as husbands, fathers, brothers, and disciples of Christ. Below are some resources to assist parishes in building vibrant and evangelizing men's ministries.
The King's Men
Marian Consecration
Marian consecration is the act of entrusting one’s body, soul, possessions, works, and entire life to the protection, guidance, and intercession of Our Lady.
The act of entrusting oneself to Mary’s care and intercession is nothing new. Jesus Himself entrusted His beloved disciple, John, to Mary while He was on the Cross (John 19:26-27).
Consecration to St. Joseph
What does it mean for a person to be consecrated to
St. Joseph?
Well, it basically means that you acknowledge that he is your spiritual father, and you want to be like him. To show it, you entrust yourself entirely into his paternal care so that he can help you acquire his virtues and become holy.