“Blessed are those who have not lost hope”

This Sunday, 27th July 2025, we pause as a Church and as families to celebrate the lives, faith and love of all grandparents and older people. It is the fifth World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, which was instituted by the late Pope Francis, since its institution it has been celebrated on the Sunday nearest the feast of Saints Joachim and Anne, grandparents of Jesus.  

“In a world that often forgets or sidelines the elderly, Pope Leo reminds us that they are witnesses of God’s promises. Their lives speak of joy, struggle, prayer and quiet strength. We honour their presence among us and we bless them for all they continue to give.”

Archbishop Eamon Martin

 

This year’s theme, chosen by Pope Leo XIV, reminds us that hope is not reserved for the young or strong, it is also the quiet, steadfast light nurtured by those whose years and experiences have shaped in them the strength and resilience to sustain faith. It is the kind of hope we so often see in our grandparents, neighbours, and elderly relatives, who ground our families through their love, prayer, and enduring example.

Click Here for Link to Pope Leo’s message

Jubilee of Hope

This year’s World Day is special as it takes place during the Jubilee year of Hope and it also marks the 25th anniversary of the Catholic Grandparents Association. As Archbishop Eamon Martin says in his special video message this is a time to thank our grandparents for their faith, wisdom and for never giving up on us.

Link to Jubilee Website

“God’s Secret Weapon”

The Catholic Grandparents Association calls grandparents “God’s secret weapon.” In today’s world of constant change, where family life can be fractured and faith often dismissed, grandparents are often the steady hands and prayerful hearts holding things together. They love deeply, pray quietly and pass on a faith that endures.

Back in 2017, Irish grandparents gathered at Knock Shrine to pray for this day to be established. Their prayers were answered and their legacy now spans parishes and dioceses across the world.

Ways to Celebrate the Day

Every parish, school and family is encouraged to join in a “revolution of gratitude and care.” Here are some simple ways to mark the day:      

  • Light a Candle: Invite a grandparent or elder to light a candle at Sunday Mass.
  • Plant a Memory Tree or Garden: Create a space to remember grandparents who have died or inspired you.
  • Acts of Love: Send a card, write a note, or call an elderly neighbour.
  • Creative Tributes: Invite children to write or draw messages of thanks.
  • Join in Prayer: Pray the special prayer for this World Day together.

Pilgrimage to Knock

A special National Grandparents Pilgrimage will take place at Knock Shrine on 27 July, led by Archbishop Francis Duffy. Whether in person or online at www.knockshrine.ie, all are invited to participate in this moment of prayer, thanks, and celebration.