 Wednesday, January 02, 2008
By Nardy Baeza Bickel
The Grand Rapids Press
GRAND RAPIDS -- As a young father of two, Ronald Smith dreamed of playing catch with his two boys, going to their school events and building a meaningful relationship with them.
But a bitter divorce and legal battle afterward has made it hard to fulfill those dreams.
Smith, now 50 and a minister with Abundant Life Ministries, is hoping to change things for fathers going through similar situations.
That's why he is organizing a seminar and prayer vigil that will provide fathers and extended family members with resources to help them become a more active part of a child's life.
The National Fatherhood Summit scheduled for Friday will include presentations by national fatherhood advocates, judges, legislators and spiritual leaders.
Among the presenters will be Stephen Walker and Mike McCormick, of the American Coalition for Fathers and Children, and Carol Rhodes, author of "Friend of the Court, Enemy of the Family: Surviving the Child Support System and Divorce Racket."
Smith also will share his story, portrayed in the book "Cheated," which he co-authored with his son, Ariel. His oldest son, Richmond Smith, died in April.
Smith says the legal system is biased against fathers and has left millions of children and their fathers without an opportunity to build a strong relationship.
"Fatherhood has been disrespected to the point that our men have been reduced to being sperm and money donors," he said. "We destroy our children when we remove their family support system."
State Rep. Glenn Steil Jr., R-Cascade Township, agrees.
Steil said while studies have shown children are better off when they have a meaningful relationship with both parents, many fathers feel they don't get an opportunity to do so after a divorce.
He said that is why he is the main sponsor of a bill that would ensure both parents get equal parenting time with the children unless there are extenuating circumstances.
"We want children to have a strong relationship with both parents, and we want fathers to be involved in kids' lives," he said. "It's shown to make a positive influence. We need to get the courts out of the way."
Parental guidance Presentations will be made by national fatherhood advocates, judges, legislators and spiritual leaders.
What: Fatherhood Summit
When: Friday
Where: Abundant Life Ministries,
1725 S. Division Ave., Grand Rapids
Cost: $20 advance, $25 at the door
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