Father Nick Smith, pastor of Saint Patrick's in Perry, joins Deacon Mark Campbell for a Father's Day conversation on the meaning of spiritual fatherhood in the priesthood. He reflects on the eight years of seminary formation that prepared him to be a father to his parishioners and honors the men who shaped his vocation. Father Nick offers heartfelt encouragement to those discerning the priesthood and to every father living out his calling in the hidden, daily "trenches."
A Father's Day conversation between Deacon Mark Campbell and Father Nick Smith, pastor of Saint Patrick's in Perry and the familiar voice of Iowa Catholic Radio's daily Gospel reflection.
Father Nick explains how spiritual fatherhood was a central theme throughout his eight years of seminary formation — learning to know God as Father and to model the fatherhood witnessed in his own family. He honors two formative men: his own father, an attorney and judge marked by a hunger for righteousness, and the late Father John Acree, who gave over sixty years to the priesthood and accompanied Father Nick into his vocation.
He describes the deep joy of priesthood — being the instrument through whom the faithful receive the Eucharist, absolution, and blessing — and the privilege of seeing spiritual life grow in souls. For those discerning the priesthood, his counsel is direct: if there's any inkling of a call, say yes and give the Lord a chance to work. To parents and grandparents, he offers reassurance that God desires the happiness of their sons and will give the hundredfold. And to all fathers, he encourages perseverance in the ordinary, hidden battles of daily life, where "fatherhood is won and lost."
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