French Fathers refers to two distinct groups of people in French society: Abbes and Pères. Abbes are members of the clergy, usually Catholic, who have been ordained as priests. Pères are laymen who have been appointed by the government to serve as legal guardians for children in need of protection. Both Abbes and Pères have a long history in France, with the first Abbes being appointed in the Middle Ages and the first Pères being appointed in the 19th century. Both groups of French Fathers have played an important role in providing care and support to vulnerable children throughout the centuries.