Spiritual Fatherhood of Catholic Priests: Conceptualization and Practical Applications

The Catholic priesthood in the United States faces challenges such as increased ministry demands and identity confusion. To address such challenges, this article contends that priests and those studying to be priests would benefit from embracing and exhibiting spiritual fatherhood. Spiritual fatherhood is rooted in Catholic Church history and theology but has not been well defined or integrated with psychology. The purpose of this article is to provide an integrative conceptualization of spiritual fatherhood that draws upon theology and psychology. In addition, the article develops several avenues of practical implications for the learning of spiritual fatherhood over time. Future directions of research and professional practice are offered.