Father (God the)

By calling God "Father," the language of faith indicates two main things: that God is the first origin of everything and transcendent authority; and that he is at the same time goodness and loving care for all his children (CCC 239).

The First Person of the Trinity

God is Father eternally in relation to his only Son, who is eternally Son only in relation to his Father. Following this apostolic tradition, the Church confessed at the first ecumenical council at Nicaea (325) that the Son is "consubstantial" with the Father, that is, one only God with him (CCC 240, 242).

Creator and Providential Care

We believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth. God's paternal care is shown in his providence, by which he guides all of creation toward its ultimate end. He is the "Father of mercies" who invites us into an adoptive relationship through Christ (CCC 268, 302, 259).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is God male? No. God transcends the human distinction between the sexes. He is neither man nor woman: he is God. He also transcends human fatherhood and motherhood, although he is their origin and standard (CCC 239).

How do we become children of the Father? Through the grace of Baptism and the gift of the Holy Spirit, we are "born from above" and adopted as sons and daughters, enabling us to cry out "Abba! Father!" (CCC 240, 1265).