noun
Refers to a male sponsor at a Christian baptism or confirmation; also used more broadly for a mentor or patron in a non-religious context.
彼は私の洗礼の教父です。
He is my godfather from my baptism.
彼は若い芸術家たちの教父のような存在だ。
He is like a godfather to young artists.
noun
Church Father
Specifically refers to the early Christian theologians and writers whose works are considered foundational to Christian doctrine.
アウグスティヌスは重要な教父の一人です。
Augustine is one of the important Church Fathers.
From 教 (teaching, religion) + 父 (father). The term is used in Christian contexts to translate 'godfather' and 'Church Father'.