'Dad, be the family hero'
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The most powerful thrust in restoring deteriorating families is an honorable father, full of integrity and fidelity, giving righteous leadership, said Elder Durrel A. Woolsey.
"Dad, you need to be a hero in your family," Elder Woolsey, who was called to the Seventy last April, said in priesthood meeting Saturday evening."They need a hero. They will have strong peer pressure and temptation to adopt the so-called heroes of today who are not worthy of their attention, and most certainly not emulation."
Elder Woolsey said a father's "patriarchal key" is never relinquished. Rather, "that joyful work and calling is to do whatever is necessary to chart a course for you and your family to unitedly return and live with Heavenly Father."
To be a father worthy of following, "a generous amount of your time is required . . . a generous piece of your day on a continuing basis," even if it means sacrificing other things.
"All of the money in the world, significant worldly accomplishments . . . or the personal enjoyment of athletic and sporting activities, will not return you and your family intact to live with Heavenly Father," he continued.
Fidelity, an "undeviating course of loyalty and faithfulness to your companion," is essential, he emphasized.
Elder Woolsey said the scriptures are the handbook of instructions for the family, and daily research is required. Communication with the Lord and a willingness to follow the Brethren are also needed to help a father guide his family through modern-day challenges.
"This simple formula will unite and strengthen your beloved family and bring countless blessings from our Father," he concluded.
