I agree that it's worth a try. When I was a dub, I remember a discussion with a Bible student about patriotism. Pretending to agree with me, he said something like, "Yes, the U.S. is only 200 years old, but they're the best!" I immediately felt a twinge because I knew he was really talking about the religion and hoped I'd make the connection.
Lots of people said things to me that made me uncomfortable. That's how we learn.
Best wishes with your dad.