World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly
The World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly this year will be July 28, 2024.
The Pope challenges us: “On this Fourth World Day devoted to them, let us show our tender love for the grandparents and the elderly members of our families. Let us spend time with those who are disheartened and no longer hope in the possibility of a different future. In place of the self-centred attitude that leads to loneliness and abandonment, let us instead show the open heart and the joyful face of men and women who have the courage to say “I will not abandon you”, and to set out on a different path.” (Message from his Holiness Pope Francis for the Fourth World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, April 25, 2024). His entire message can be found here.
Purpose of the Day
This day is an opportunity, as Pope Francis says, to bring together the various age groups to honour our elderly: “What is important is the unity of the different ages of life, which is the real point of reference for understanding and valuing human life in its entirety” (Catechesis, 23 February 2022).
Theme
This year’s theme, “Do not cast me off in my old age” (cf. Ps 71: 9), recalls the heartfelt plea to the Lord not to be left alone in old age. All too often, in fact, loneliness is a bitter companion in the lives of the elderly due to numerous contingent situations. Our hope for the celebration of this event is, therefore, that every Church community will strive to experience ‘a day without loneliness’ by visiting the elderly, involving them, and listening to their stories and testimonies of faith.
Pastoral Suggestions
Includes suggestions on the following:
- Visiting the elderly who are alone
- Preparing for the day with the elderly
- Preparing for the day with the youth
- Plenary Indulgence
Pastoral Tool Kit
Contact
Teresa Hartnett
Director
905-528-7988 Ext. 2250
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Sarah Lintott
Office Administrator
905-528-7988 Ext. 2249
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