Catholic Stuff You Should Know Fathering Sons
Oct 30, 2025
In this engaging discussion, firefighter and father of five, Dominic Polito, shares insights from his book, Fathering Sons. He explores the importance of authentic fatherhood and modern initiation rites for boys. Dominic emphasizes the need to be present in parenting, contrasting it with performance-based approaches. He shares heartwarming stories from his 10-year trip tradition with his sons that foster deep connections. Additionally, he discusses the psychological roles of mothers and fathers, the impact of trauma on mental health, and how intentional fathering can enhance spiritual formation.
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Vocation Over Provision
- Dominic Polito discovered fatherhood required intentional vocation, not just provision.
- Committing his creative energy to parenting transformed his relationship with God and his kids.
Prioritize Time For Parenting
- Cut extracurriculars and allocate time to intentionally raise your children.
- Make your son's masculinity and daughter's femininity a parental responsibility, not outsourced.
Strength Allocation Defines Manhood
- Masculinity is revealed by how a man uses his strength, not just by innate identity.
- Moving from performance to presence bestows true fatherly masculinity.
