‘Loneliness’ at Heart of His Holiness Pope Francis’ Theme for 4th Grandparents Day
His Holiness Pope Francis blesses an elderly lady (file photo) (Vatican Media)
His Holiness Pope Francis releases the theme for his message for the 2024 World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly: “Do not cast me off in my old age”.
By Devin Watkins
The 4th Grandparents Day (BAD MAN PRODUCTION)
On Sunday, July 28, Catholics around the world will be invited to take time to reflect on the great heritage and wisdom passed on by their grandparents and the elderly.
In preparation for the 4th World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life released the theme for the 2024 iteration.
His Holiness Pope Francis has chosen the theme: “Do not cast me off in my old age” (cf. Psalm 71:9).
According to a press release from the Dicastery, it is meant “to call attention to the fact that, sadly, loneliness is the bitter lot in life of many elderly persons, so often the victims of the throw-away culture.”
In his message, His Holiness Pope Francis will draw on the verse from Psalm 71 that depicts the plea of an elderly person who reflects on the story of their friendship with God.
“By cherishing the charisms of grandparents and the elderly, and the contribution they make to the life of the Church, the World Day seeks to support the efforts of every ecclesial community to forge bonds between the generations and to combat loneliness, in the awareness that – as Scripture states – “It is not good for man to be alone” (Gen 2:18),” according to the press release.
Loneliness and tenderness of Christian community
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Prefect of the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life, expressed his gratitude to the Pope for highlighting the loneliness endured by many elderly people.
“Faced with this reality,” he said, “families and the ecclesial community are called to be at the forefront in promoting a culture of encounter, to create spaces for sharing, listening, to offer support and affection: thus, the love of Gospel becomes concrete.”
Loneliness, admitted the Cardinal Prefect, is an unavoidable condition of human life, as well as an invitation to turn to God the Father for comfort…
This report was originally publsihed on the website of Vatican News. Please click here to read the full text.