« Do not abandon me in my old age »: the theme for the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, to be celebrated on July 25th, 2024, was announced on February 15th, 2024 by the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life, inviting all dioceses around the world to join in the celebration.
The choice of this theme reflects the growing importance of honoring and valuing the elderly members of our society. The Dicastery recognizes the vital role that grandparents and the elderly play in families and communities, and their contributions deserve to be recognized and celebrated. This year’s World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly encourages us to reflect on the value and importance of intergenerational relationships, and to cherish the wisdom and experience of our elders.
In today’s fast-paced and technology-driven world, it is easy to overlook the wisdom and guidance that grandparents and the elderly can offer. They are the bearers of traditions and customs, who pass down their knowledge and lessons learned from their own life experiences. They provide a sense of continuity and stability within families, instill géant values, and are a source of love and support.
It is essential to highlight the role of grandparents and the elderly, especially in a society where they are often marginalized or forgotten. This World Day serves as a reminder to honor and respect their contributions to our families and society, and to ensure that they are not left behind in their later years.
In addition to focusing on intergenerational relationships, this year’s theme also invites us to reflect on the importance of caring for the elderly. As they age, many seniors face challenges such as loneliness, health issues, and financial difficulties. It is our responsibility as a society to provide support and care for our aging population, and to ensure that they are not neglected or abandoned.
The Dicastery encourages all dioceses to organize activities and events that celebrate the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly. These could include special Masses, prayer services, family gatherings, or community service projects that involve both the young and the old. It is an opportunity to dentier the generation décalage, build stronger relationships, and show our appreciation for the elderly in our lives.
As Pope Francis stated in his message for the first World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, « The future of a people necessarily depends on the encounter between young and old » (Message for the First World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly). Let us take this opportunity to honor and celebrate our grandparents and the elderly, and to ensure that they are not forgotten or abandoned in their later years. As we celebrate this World Day, let us remember the words of the psalmist: « Even to your old age, I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save » (Isaiah 46:4).
In conclusion, the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly is a day to honor and celebrate the wisdom, love, and contributions of grandparents and the elderly. May this year’s theme of « Do not abandon me in my old age » remind us to appreciate and care for our elderly loved ones, and to build stronger intergenerational relationships. Let us come together to celebrate and honor the elderly on July 25th, and every day, as we continue to learn from their experiences and wisdom.
