Why do Catholics call priests Father when Jesus said call no man father?

Catholics call priests “Father” because priests exercise a real spiritual fatherhood. Jesus’ words in Matthew 23:9 do not forbid every use of the word.

What Jesus was condemning. Jesus said, “Call no one on earth your father; you have but one Father in heaven” (Mt 23:9). In the same passage, He also says not to be called “rabbi” or “master” (Mt 23:8-10). His target was the pride of religious leaders who sought titles, honor, and authority for themselves while failing to serve God’s people. Christ was warning against treating any human teacher as the source of truth or giving him the place that belongs to God alone.

How Scripture uses the word. The Bible continues to call human beings fathers. Stephen addresses the Jewish leaders as “brothers and fathers” (Acts 7:2). St. Paul calls Abraham “the father of us all” (Rom 4:16). He also tells the Corinthians, “I became your father in Christ Jesus through the gospel” (1 Cor 4:15). Paul’s words are especially relevant because they describe spiritual fatherhood within the Church. He does not compete with God. His fatherhood comes from God and serves God’s children.

Why priests receive the title. Through Holy Orders, a priest is configured to Christ and serves His people by preaching, offering the Eucharist, forgiving sins, and providing pastoral care. In the sacraments, Christ works through the ordained minister (CCC 1548). The priest possesses no independent spiritual power. His ministry depends entirely upon Christ, the one High Priest and source of every grace (CCC 1544-1545, 1551). Calling him Father recognizes his responsibility to teach, nourish, correct, and care for a spiritual family.

Keeping the title in perspective. A priest should never demand admiration or use his position to control others. Jesus taught that Christian authority must take the form of service: “The greatest among you must be your servant” (Mt 23:11). Catholics should respect priests while remembering that they remain human beings who need prayer, accountability, and mercy.

When you address a priest as Father, understand the title as a reminder of his duty. He is called to help you know and love your heavenly Father.