Latest Events World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly 2024 News from Vatican News ‘Loneliness’ at heart of Pope’s theme for 4th Grandparents Day On Sunday 28 July 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. The Pope 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, 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. Read article in full Message from the Holy Father Resource Kit Prayers, resources, activities from the Catholic Grandparents Association National Office for Vocation resources The important role grandparents play in a healthy society Ahead of the World Day of Prayer for Grandparents and the Elderly, Bishop David Evans has spoken about the need for us to value the elderly and recognise the important contribution grandparents make to society. Bishop David, Auxiliary Bishop here in Birmingham, is the Lead Bishop for Marriage and Family Life at the Bishops' Conference. Listen to Podcast Resources from the Bishops' Conference Prayer for the Fourth World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly Lord, faithful God, You who created us in Your image, You who never leaves us alone and who accompanies us through every season of life, Do not abandon us, take care of us, and grant us, once again, the ability to discover ourselves and recognise that we are Your children. Renew our hearts with your Word and do not allow anyone to be cast aside. May your Spirit of love fill us with Your tenderness and teach us to say: “I will not abandon you!” To those we meet on our journey. With the help of your beloved Son, may we not lose the taste for fraternity and may we not conform to the sadness of loneliness. Help us to look to the future with renewed hope, and make the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly a day without loneliness, and a day abundant with the first-fruits of Your peace. Amen. Manage Cookie Preferences