World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, Sunday, September 8, 2024
What is the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly?
In 2021, Pope Francis established a Church-wide celebration World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly. He wanted to highlight that those in their older years are a great gift to our world and that every generation has something to give. This year will mark the third anniversary of this day set aside to remember our grandparents and those who are elderly.
“Do not cast me off in my old age.” ~ Psalm 71-9
When will the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly be celebrated?
The U.S. bishops have approved the transfer of the celebration of World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly in the U.S. from the fourth Sunday of July to the first weekend after Labor Day in September to coincide with National Grandparents (and the Elderly) Day in the United States. The Roman Catholic of Archdiocese of Washington observes this day in September.
In September 2024, we will celebrate the third World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly in union with the universal Church. There is so much gratitude that we have to express to our elders and it is important to welcome their participation in our parishes and take them seriously so they can see their great role in our society.
The Office of Family Life encourages all parishes to celebrate the Day for Grandparents and the Elderly. Find more information about the World Day of Grandparents on social media using #ElderlyandGrandparents.
Celebrate World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly with us on Sunday, September 8. See our booklet for ideas:
Celebrate your grandparents and the elderly in your community this September 8 and share your photos and videos with us:
Resources
Articles
- “The Caress and the Smile” Meeting of Pope Francis with Grandparents, the Elderly, and Grandchildren
- 18 Catechetical Topics from Pope Francis on Old Age
- Prayer for the Fourth World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly
- The elderly teach us to persevere in the Faith: Message by Pope Francis at the General Audience
- Pastoral Message on growing older within the faith community English version
- NFP Week celebrates Grandparents
Videos
- Learn more about grandparents and the elderly at the centre by watching the video Inheriting a passion. (Closed caption available in English)
Website
- Pope Francis’ message for the Fourth World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly for 2024
Note* The United States date is not displayed on this webpage. ADW celebrates this event in September.
- Catholic Grandparents Association – Offers resources to grandparents to help them pass on the faith.
For more resources and related events, please contact the Office of Family Life.