The term “grandparent” came even more to life for me when a new generation and “great” was added. September8th marks the fourth World day for Grandparents and the Elderly that will be celebrated throughout the Church in the United States. Pope Francis designated this day based on Psalm 71, “Do not cast me off in my old age.” In many cases the elderly feel a sense of loneliness and abandonment. We need to show an open heart and joyful face to those who are in need.
We may not all be grandparents, but we will all become older. The joys of children can lift all of us. We need to pass along our faith and keeping prayers at the heart of our families. The experience of life and faith contribute to our society and the dreams of the next generation. The most well known grandparents of the bible are St Anne and St Joachim who are the parents of Mary. The patronage of St Anne includes grandparents, couples without children, women in labor and women unable to conceive. The role of grandparents play such a vital role in completing the loving family unit and nurturing the faith of future generations. They are a vital part in the training and teaching children to love the ways of the Lord and honor his commandments. Grandparents are an incredible sense of security, wisdom and love.
Let us offer this prayer for our grandparents.
Bless our grandparents with long life, happiness and health. May they remain constant in your love, and believing signs of Your presence to their children and grandchildren. We ask this Through Christ our Lord. Amen.