Father's Day in the UK, celebrated on the third Sunday of June, is a heartfelt occasion dedicated to honouring fathers and father figures. While it may seem like a modern celebration, its roots trace back to both religious traditions and early 20th-century initiatives.

The History of Father's Day

The concept of Father's Day has ancient origins. In Catholic Europe, a day to honour fathers has been celebrated since at least 1508, coinciding with Saint Joseph's Day on 19 March. Saint Joseph, revered as the earthly father of Jesus, became a symbol of fatherhood in the Catholic tradition.

However, the modern iteration of Father's Day began in the United States. In 1909, Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington, inspired by a Mother's Day sermon, sought to establish a day to honour fathers. Her own father, a Civil War veteran, had single-handedly raised six children after his wife's death. Thanks to her efforts, the first Father's Day was celebrated in Spokane in 1910.

The idea gradually gained popularity, and by the mid-20th century, Father's Day was being celebrated in various countries, including the UK. In 1972, it was officially recognised as a national holiday in the United States.

How Other Countries Celebrate Father's Day

Father's Day is observed worldwide, though its timing and traditions vary by country.

  • Nepal: Known as "Kushe Aunsi" in the Nepali calendar, the date varies each year but usually falls in late August or early September. Children honour their fathers with sweets, gifts, and ceremonial foods. Those whose fathers have passed away visit sacred sites like the Gokarna Temple to offer prayers and remember them.
  • Germany: Known as "Vatertag," it coincides with Ascension Day and is often celebrated with men embarking on hiking trips with beer and regional food. It’s seen more as a day for male bonding than strictly a family event.
  • Thailand: Celebrated on 5 December, the birthday of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. People wear yellow, the King’s colour, and give fathers a Canna flower, which symbolises masculinity and strength.
  • Brazil: Celebrated on the second Sunday of August, families gather for meals, and children often present their fathers with handmade gifts or cards. Churches sometimes hold special masses to honour fatherhood.

Five Fathers Who Have Shaped The World

Mahatma Gandhi - A leader of India's non-violent independence movement, Gandhi was also a father to four sons. His personal letters reveal a man deeply concerned with imparting moral values and discipline to his children.

Charles Darwin - The father of modern evolutionary science was also a devoted dad to 10 children. He played a central role in raising and educating his brood at a time when child-rearing was seen as women's work. The death in 1851 of 10-year-old Annie was a crushing blow for Darwin and his wife, Emma, and some have speculated that it caused him to lose his religious faith.

Amasa Coleman Lee - The father of author Harper Lee, he served as the inspiration for Atticus Finch in "To Kill a Mockingbird." A lawyer and legislator in Alabama, he stood up against racial injustice during the Jim Crow era.

Chiune Sugihara - As Japanese Consul General in Lithuania during World War II, Sugihara defied orders and issued visas to thousands of Jewish refugees, saving them from the Holocaust. His actions were driven by a profound sense of paternal responsibility and compassion.

Johann Sebastian Bach - The renowned composer was a father to 20 children, several of whom became significant musicians themselves. His dedication to both his art and family left a lasting legacy in the world of classical music.

Honouring Father Figures: Beyond Biology

Father figures - such as stepfathers, grandfathers, uncles, mentors, and family friends - play an equally vital role in a child's development. These individuals often step in to provide guidance, support, and love, especially in situations where a biological father may be absent. Their involvement can significantly influence a child's emotional well-being, social development, and overall life trajectory. Recognising and celebrating these father figures is essential, as they contribute profoundly to the nurturing and growth of the younger generation.

The Enduring Impact of a Father's Love

A father's role is multifaceted - provider, protector, mentor, and friend. From teaching a child to ride a bike to offering guidance through life's challenges, fathers shape the character and values of their children. Their influence extends beyond the household, contributing to the fabric of society.

This Father's Day, let's take a moment to appreciate the fathers and father figures who have nurtured, taught, and supported us. Whether through a heartfelt message, a thoughtful gift, or simply spending time together, expressing gratitude can make a lasting impact. Happy Father's Day to all the incredible dads out there!