This year, the Catholic Church commemorates the 5th World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly on Sunday, 27 July 2025, with the heartfelt theme “Blessed are those who have not lost hope” (cf. Sirach 14:2). Established by Pope Francis in 2021, this special day is celebrated each year on the fourth Sunday of July – close to the feast of Saints Joachim and Anne - honouring grandparents and the elderly within families and the Church. The theme highlights the dignity of the elderly and promotes trust in the Lord during old age.
Pope Francis urged elderly grandparents to rediscover hope as a source of joy and happiness during the Jubilee Year of Hope. He reflected on biblical figures like Abraham, Sarah, Moses, and Zechariah – called by God in their old age – to show that God never ceases to work through us, regardless of our age. He emphasised that old age is not a time of decline, but a time of grace, blessing and mission.
The late Pope emphasised that our elderly are true witnesses of hope, and play a vital role in passing down faith, wisdom and values to the younger generation. Like Jacob, who blessed his grandchildren, today’s elders are called to guide the young with their rich experience and compassionate care. In return, the youth are encouraged to support and learn from their wise elders and to foster a bond of mutual respect and growth.
Pope Francis reminded us that every elderly person, even with their weaknesses, can still love, pray and hope. Their suffering can shine brightly as a testament to God’s love and His divine presence. Visiting the elderly is not just a gesture - it is like a meaningful pilgrimage to Christ, especially for those who cannot make the journey to Rome. Let us cherish and nurture our grandparents and elderly loved ones, recognising how their faith, presence and prayers continue to inspire and shape our future.
In this Jubilee of hope and renewal, Pope Francis warmly called for a gentle change in how society cares for our elderly. Too often, they can feel forgotten, lonely and overlooked, but he invited us to make a heartfelt difference. He called on the Church to lead a beautiful “revolution of tenderness and gratitude” by visiting seniors, welcoming them into prayer groups, and restoring their dignity.
During this Jubilee Year, Pope Leo XIV encouraged prioritising the elderly who are unable to join pilgrimages to the designated parishes. A plenary indulgence is graciously granted to all who attend Mass or prayer services throughout this week, or visit elderly friends and neighbours, whether in person or virtually. This includes those who are lonely, unwell, or facing disability. It is a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate kindness and compassion!
Let this be a week of prayer, gratitude, and outreach. We are invited to recite the Rosary and offer special intentions for our grandparents and the elderly. Spend quality time with them or reach out to them, and encourage grandchildren and young people to listen to their stories and recognise their irreplaceable role in the family and the Church.
Lord, bless our grandparents and the elderly with joy, strength and hope, and may we always honour them with love and gratitude.
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