Paul Nwosu
On a bright and reflective Sunday morning, Catholics across the globe marked this year’s Fathers’ Day with solemnity and joy. At Sacred Heart Chaplaincy, Ngozika Housing Estate in Awka, Rev. Fr. Maximus Okonkwo delivered a stirring homily that merged the spiritual depth of the day’s Gospel reading with the practical responsibilities of fatherhood.
Taking his cue from the Gospel of John 21:1-19, Fr. Okonkwo drew attention to the third post-resurrection appearance of Jesus to His disciples, a poignant encounter laden with meaning, especially for the celebration of Fathers’ Day.
Following the crucifixion, the once-vibrant apostles were broken and disoriented. Their hopes shattered, many began returning to their former lives. Some, as in the case of the disciples on the road to Emmaus, even failed to recognize Jesus when He walked beside them.
Peter, the ever-impulsive leader, returned to fishing, his old trade, and was joined by others who sought something to occupy their weary souls. But despite their efforts, the night yielded nothing. Then came Jesus, standing on the shore, unrecognized at first. At His instruction, they cast their net again and were overwhelmed by a miraculous catch.
Fr. Okonkwo highlighted this moment not just as a miracle of abundance, but as a turning point. The conversation between Jesus and Peter that followed was the heart of the homily. Three times Jesus asked, “Do you love me?”. A question that mirrored Peter’s earlier threefold denial of his Master before the cock crowed.
“This was not merely a test,” Fr. Okonkwo explained. “It was redemption. It was Jesus giving Peter the chance to reaffirm his love, to heal from the guilt he carried, and to prepare for the great responsibility ahead.” Jesus wanted to be sure.
In a powerful analogy, Fr. Okonkwo compared this encounter to the rigorous process of selecting a new Pope during a Vatican Conclave. “The Church cannot afford mistakes in leadership,” he said. “Just as Jesus examined Peter’s fidelity before entrusting him with the flock, so too does the Church ensure the right man takes the seat of Peter.”
Drawing a bridge between Scripture and the everyday lives of men, Fr. Okonkwo turned his focus to the fathers present in the congregation. He praised them as the heads of their families, calling them to be role models and champions of integrity.
“Teach your children the dignity of labour,” he urged. “Let them understand that ‘aka aja aja na-eweta onu mmanụ mmanụ’, (hard work brings lasting rewards).” He warned against the celebration of sudden and unexplained wealth, encouraging fathers to question its sources, especially when mothers may be too eager to attribute it to divine blessings. “Fathers,” he said, “must be the moderating force in the family.”
He also emphasized the importance of love and trust within the home. “Love your wives, and let peace reign. Only in a stable home can children grow into responsible adults.”
Above all, Fr. Okonkwo reminded the faithful of Christ’s enduring love and the power of redemption. “Love Jesus,” he concluded, “as He loved Peter. Even when we falter, His love remains and calls us back to purpose.”
In blending biblical reflection with practical wisdom, Fr. Okonkwo’s homily resonated deeply, not just as a message for Fathers’ Day, but as a timeless call to love, lead, and live with purpose.
