World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly
In establishing the annual World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, Pope Francis encouraged young people to honor the elderly, to learn from them, reach out to them, make them feel loved, wanted, and not forgotten. The Pope has also reminded the elderly of the world of their vocation, inviting them “to preserve our roots and to pass on the faith to the younger ones.”
Here at Jeanne Jugan Residence, we have been blessed with the company of younger generations. Prior to the pandemic, students from LaSalle Academy visited Residents on a weekly basis; members of Eagle Scout Troop 158 have helped with many projects in the garden, elementary school children from St. Cecilia’s delivered Valentine’s Day greetings, and as part of their priestly formation, seminarians have ministered to our elderly family.
Most recently, Resident Ray’s grandson and his band delighted us all with a summer concert. Their amazing talent and lively music brought a youthful energy to the auditorium. Highlighting music from the 60’s and 70’s, many of our Residents enjoyed an evening filled with singing and dancing.
The elderly, the Pope has said, “remind us that old age is a gift and that grandparents are the link between the different generations and pass on to the young the experience of life.” Grandchildren, Seminarians, Eagle Scouts have filled our Residents’ hearts with love, kindness and charity.
Day for Grandparents and the Elderly