We shouldn’t view Father’s Day in the United States as just another buy-a-card holiday. Instead, it should serve as a chance to strengthen a vital societal role that increasingly has grown weak, and with disastrous consequences.

Almost a quarter of American children under 18 do not live with their biological father, according to the 2006 census, and that number is growing. At the same time, study after study shows that fathers make an irreplaceable difference in the lives of their children in terms of education, income, abuse, mental and physical health, drug use, sexual activity, pregnancy and other social indicators.

The rise in divorce has had a devastating impact on families and society. In many cases, it cuts a father’s consistent contact with his children.

But even fathers who live with their children are challenged these days. It is no secret that fathers take a beating as self-centered buffoons and disconnected know-nothings in popular television and movie representations.

Calling for fathers to play a stronger role in their families and society does not mean a return to some sort of tyrannical patriarch that was all too common in homes half a century ago.

Fatherhood is not about domination of wife and children; it is about humble self-sacrifice and servant leadership. Despite being humble, a good father should display to his family an ability to take courageous action in the face of trying circumstances, offer cordial sympathy and helpfulness in all dealings with others, display a willingness to do unto others as he would have them do unto him, and display a determination to make Earth a better place for however long he is on it.

The Bible has some relevant thoughts on the matter. As Mary’s husband, Joseph -- the model of fatherhood – experienced persecution, exile and poverty. He had to settle far from his native town. His only reward was to be with Christ.

St. Joseph’s deep respect and care for Mary serves as a model for all husbands. He loved her with great respect, which is the mark of all authentic love. Joseph teaches us that it is possible to love without possessing.

The love, respect and affection a man shows his wife is among the most valuable conditions a father can create, not just for a happy family but also for the formation of loving, emotionally adjusted children.

The formation of children is what fatherhood is all about. That sounds obvious, but it is a duty far too many fathers have drifted away from, for whatever reason. The consequences are wide-ranging, and often devastating.

This Father’s Day, let’s hope all dads strive for the wisdom and strength to fulfill their mission, for the good of their families and society as a whole.