Sermon Notes June 21, 2026
Fathers, Mentors, and the Power of Example: Rev. Sheryl Padgett
Key Message:
The greatest gift we can offer others is not advice but example. Through courage, compassion, integrity, and service, we help others find hope, purpose, and belonging.
Main Points:
• We honor fathers, mentors, coaches, teachers, sponsors, and all who have helped guide us through their example.
• The highest expression of the divine masculine is not domination or control, but integrity, responsibility, courage, compassion, and service.
• Many people today, especially young men, struggle with loneliness, isolation, and a lack of purpose.
• Healing begins through connection—with God, with ourselves, and with one another.
• A powerful example from an AA meeting demonstrated how community, mentorship, and service can transform lives.
• Recovery and growth happen through relationships. No one heals alone. No one thrives alone.
• Spiritual community provides belonging, encouragement, accountability, and support during life’s challenges.
• Charles Fillmore taught that the Christ Presence within us often appears through ordinary people offering wisdom, strength, and compassion.
• True leadership is demonstrated through presence, service, and walking alongside others on the journey.
• We all have the capacity to mentor, encourage, and inspire someone through the way we live our lives.
Spiritual Takeaways:
• Show up with courage.
• Lead with compassion.
• Serve with integrity.
• Be willing to support others on their journey.
• Remember that your example may be guiding someone you don’t even know is watching.
Questions for Reflection:
Who has been a mentor or guide in my life?
How can I embody courage, compassion, and integrity more fully?
Whose path am I helping illuminate through my example?
Affirmation:
I am guided by divine wisdom and strengthened by divine love. I show up with courage, compassion, and integrity. Through my example, I help create a world where all people know they belong, they matter, and they never walk alone.
