Peruvian cardinal reminds fathers of their responsibility to teach children

Lima, Peru, Jun 22, 2010 / 02:02 pm MT (CNA).-

The Archbishop of Lima, Cardinal Juan Luis Cipriani, called on fathers this week to remember their number one responsibility, which is to raise their children in the faith by being good examples and offering correction when needed.

Referring to Father’s Day, the cardinal said he understands that work and other activities absorb fathers’ time, “But I do not understand why you do not give the best of your heart, faith and affection to your children, wives and grandchildren.  Fathers, do not fail to safeguard that treasure of affection and good example, and correction as well, so that your homes may continue to be luminous and joyful.”

During the program, “Dialogue of Faith,” the cardinal remarked that the responsibility for teaching children is not the task of the State but of the parents.  “Fathers, assume more responsibility in the raising of your children. You must keep them from not studying, taking drugs, killing and kidnapping.  Fathers….this is your duty,” he said.

Cardinal Cipriani made gave the same message during a visit to Santiago, Chile. “Both parents, the mother and the father, must teach with their example, raise their children in the art of loving, and of being generous and fraternal,” he said.