Pope Francis recently announced the establishment of an international day to honor grandparents and senior adults. The World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly will take place annually on the fourth Sunday of July.
The Pope remarked on the importance of grandparents in the scriptures and in our lives today. He reminded us that “…old age is a gift and grandparents are the link between the different generations to pass on to the young the experiences of life and faith.” Grandparents are essential for a strong family structure.
Due to the pandemic, people today are more isolated than ever. Older people are missing out on the joy of interacting with others, especially those younger than them. Conversely, the younger generation is missing out on the wisdom and counsel they often receive from older adults. Senior adults are part of a very important bridge that serves to close the gap between the older and younger church family. They have a unique ability to unite the entire body. The role of seniors and specifically grandparents cannot be cherished enough.
This first World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, take time to honor and highlight the value and importance that these individuals bring to the church and their local communities. If you are a grandparent or senior adult that is celebrated on this day, consider how you can more intentionally influence the children and young adults in your life.
If you, like me, are part of the younger generation, make sure to reach out to your grandparents and other senior adults who have influenced you. Take time to celebrate and thank God for the beauty he has given us in all of our relationships. Let’s hope that this day of honoring becomes an annual tradition for both Catholics and Protestants around the world!
The first World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly is Sunday, July 25, 2021. If you’d like to find out more information click here.
Bryan Adamovicz graduated with a degree in Marketing from Michigan State University and joined Grandly in December 2020.
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