“Your presence is your child’s compass.” — Dr. Otis McMillan
This past Sunday, Franklin Chapel AME Zion Church came together in love and gratitude to celebrate the incredible men who shape our families and communities. Our Father’s Day Service was filled with heartfelt worship, uplifting fellowship, and a timely word from guest preacher Dr. Otis McMillan.
✝ A Message to Remember
Dr. McMillan began preaching just after the hour mark of our worship service and immediately captured our hearts with a powerful message on purposeful fatherhood. His sermon challenged every man—father, grandfather, and mentor—to walk in faith, lead with grace, and live with spiritual intentionality.
🔑 Key Takeaways from the Message:
1. Presence Over Perfection
Fathers are most impactful when they are emotionally and spiritually present. A father’s presence offers stability, confidence, and direction for the entire family.
“You don’t have to be perfect—but you do have to be present.”
2. Lead with Godly Wisdom
Dr. McMillan called on fathers to lead their families in righteousness, modeling faith, humility, and integrity every day.
3. Speak Life
Every word matters. Fathers were reminded to speak love, affirmation, and guidance into their children’s lives.
4. Show Grace
True leadership includes the willingness to say, “I was wrong.” Fathers were encouraged to offer and receive grace, especially in moments of failure.
5. Build a Lasting Legacy
The most valuable inheritance a father can pass down is a life rooted in faith. Dr. McMillian emphasized that generational blessings come from generational obedience.
🏆 Honoring the Fathers Among Us
In addition to the powerful message, we also recognized two special men in our congregation:
- The Youngest Father Present
- The Oldest Father Present
These recognitions reminded us of the lifelong journey and generational impact of fatherhood—from those just starting out to those who have led their families with love for decades.
Every father in attendance also received a special Father’s Day booklet, filled with devotionals, encouraging Scriptures, and tools to strengthen their spiritual walk.
🍽 Fellowship & Brotherhood
The day began with a men’s breakfast at 8:30AM, followed by Sunday School at 9:00AM. It was a time of community, laughter, and shared faith. Fathers gathered to connect, reflect, and encourage one another in their walk with God.
📸 Photo Gallery: Father’s Day Moments
Take a look at the joy, love, and celebration captured throughout the day.
📺 Watch the Full Message by Dr. McMillan
Click here to view the sermon on YouTube
We are grateful for all the fathers, grandfathers, uncles, mentors, and father-figures in our congregation. Your example matters, and your faith leaves a legacy.
Happy Father’s Day from all of us at Franklin Chapel AME Zion Church!
