Date of Award

4-12-2003

Document Type

Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Department

Seminary

First Advisor

Charles Conniry, Jr., Ph.D.

Second Advisor

Dr. MaryKate Morse Ph.D.

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to aid the pastor in mobilizing the local church to minister to those individuals and persons who are affected by father absenteeism. To accomplish this objective, I seek to understand the nature of the problem from a sociological, psychological and biblical perspective, and then propose a simple strategy to aid the congregation in ministering to the fatherless.

The introduction of the paper defines the issue of father absenteeism, stating why father absenteeism is a problematic trend. Chapter One discusses the causes of father absenteeism. The chapter seeks to answer the question from a sociological perspective as to why fathers abandon their homes and children. Causes such as war, voluntary abandonment, cultural trends and the decline of marriage are discussed.

Chapter Two covers the impact that father absenteeism has on the lives of those affected. Psychological issues such as pain and father hunger are explored along with the inherent risks of poverty, juvenile delinquency and diminished educational opportunities. Chapters Three and Four give a biblical overview of God as father and examines the roles of earthly fathers as taught in the Old and New Testament Scriptures.

Chapter Five delineates a simple strategy a busy pastor can utilize. The strategy consists of forming a task force, preaching, mentoring and prayer. I close the chapter by suggesting how the pastor might use these tools to minister to the fatherless.

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