U.S. celebration of the World Day for Grandparents, Elderly is Sept. 8
Pope Francis has chosen a line from Psalm 71 – “Do not cast me off in my old age” – as the theme for the 2024 celebration of the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly. Read his message on the Vatican website (multiple languages).
Established by Pope Francis in 2021, the World Day is commemorated on the fourth Sunday of July to coincide with the feasts of Sts. Joachim and Anne. The 2024 World Day was celebrated on Sunday, July 28. But, the U.S. bishops have approved the transfer of the celebration of World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly in the U.S. to the first Sunday after Labor Day in September to coincide with National Grandparents (and the Elderly) Day in the United States as many local communities, schools, and parishes have celebrated for some time. That's this Sunday!
A number of our Catholic schools are having grandparents and "grand friends" join their communities for special Masses, blessings, or receptions. And many of our students are making personal invitations to the elderly to join them at Mass on September 8. As an added bonus, Pope Francis grants a plenary indulgence for Catholics across the United States who celebrate the day under the usual conditions for such indulgences. See the apostolic decree here.
Lord God almighty,
bless our grandparents with long life, happiness, and health.
May they remain constant in your love
and be living signs of your presence
to their children and grandchildren.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.