World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly – 27 July 2025

In recent years the Sunday closest to the Feast of Ss. Joachim and Anne has been designated as ‘World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly’. This year that Sunday falls on 27 July 2025. The National Pilgrimage of the Catholic Grandparents Association takes place that day in Knock with chief celebrant Archbishop Francis Duffy.

This is the 5^th World Day and the theme is ‘Blessed are those who have not lost hope’ (Sir 14:2). Grandparents and the Elderly are central components of the life of every parish. Pope Leo XIV reminds us “embracing the elderly helps us to understand that life is more than just the present moment”. He calls on every parish/diocese/movement to become a “protagonist in a ‘revolution’ of gratitude and care”.

A few possible ways to celebrate the Day:

• I suggest that a candle be lit in the sanctuary of every church by a grandparent or an older person to recognise, acknowledge and celebrate the contribution of grandparents and the elderly to our parishes.

Message for the V World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly – 2025