WFWP Canada Event: “The Father’s Perspective on Parenting”
"The presence and involvement of a father is unlike anything else in the universe. That’s because dads mimic what our heavenly Father does for us, His children—He protects, shelters, comforts and loves.” —Joe Battaglia
The Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) Canada held its fourth webinar in a series called Women, Faith, and Families “The Father’s Perspective on Parenting” on October 25, 2021. The webinar was bilingual (French and English interpretation) and there were 31 participants.
The evening began with enjoying a George Strait song called “A Father’s Love” the chorus of which was “It's a love without end, Amen.” This set the tone for an introductory message by Lilly Tadin, WFWP Canada President, who said, “I believe our Creator designed fathers to have a unique influence on their family. Our message is families. Today more than ever families are really in trouble. We are creating these webinars to engage our society to bring higher values into the family.”
The message of the first speaker, Jean-Marconel Dutervil, (Pastor, Evangelical Sinai Baptist Church; Representative, Council of Religious Leaders of Montreal-North), was that a father’s role is different from a mother’s because his role is as the principal provider of security in the family. He has very difficult decisions to make. He takes risks and overcomes obstacles. This is the reason why, he says, certain fathers are intimidated by the burden of the family. A father needs to feel loved to discover his power. The father’s role is to place the children’s needs at the heart of every decision to transform the life of the child.
Dr. Tyrone Childs, CEO of ACARelationship.club, suggested that a man will seek a spouse that excites his genes and that this selection is based on instinct. He pointed out that the present trend with married couples in North America is that those who do not procreate will suffer a loss of esteem.
Dr. Tyrone Childs speaking at the event
John Abelseth, Blessed Family Ministry Leader, began his portion with John 3:16 as an example of God’s fatherly love for the world. He proclaimed that fatherhood is one of the most amazing, exciting and rewarding experiences in one’s life. “A family is healthier when a father is present, society is healthier. Father’s have a huge role to play.” His fatherly anecdotes include:
1. Demonstrate your love everyday.
2. Have one meal together in a relaxed environment and listen carefully to your children.
3. Take family trips.
4. Have regular scripture study.
5. Avoid husband and wife conflicts by supporting your spouse.
“Children learn by osmosis. They absorb their environment,” Mr. Abelseth concluded.
A question period was held and the speakers responded to questions such as “What would you say to a man who considers his family to be a burden?” John responded with the advice that if father’s stick with their families and love them the reward is way beyond any burden a man can experience.
Speakers and participants at the event
A mother needs the love and support of her husband, the children’s father. WFWP supports mothers by also uplifting and honoring the value of fathers and father-figures in the lives of children because men and women were designed to complement each other. We all must acknowledge the hard work and sacrifice fathers make to support and care for the family. Make some time today to thank your father and/or the father-figures in your life!