“Blessed are those who have not lost hope” (Sirach 14:2)
In 2021, Pope Francis established the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly to be celebrated every July near the liturgical Memorial of Saints Joachim and Anne, the grandparents of Jesus. This special day honours the wisdom, faith, and enduring love of our elders — the spiritual pillars of our families and Church communities.
This year, we will mark the day on Sunday, July 27, 2025, under the theme:
“Blessed are those who have not lost hope” (Sirach 14:2)
This theme invites us to recognize and cherish the hope-filled witness of grandparents and the elderly — those who remain steadfast in their faith, even in the face of trials, and continue to share their strength and love with the next generation.
📽️ A 1-minute video, filmed in St. John’s, Newfoundland, beautifully captures the joy of intergenerational encounters between children and their grandparents.
▶️ Watch the video and explore resources (English)
▶️ Resources in French
📜 Read the CCCB press release:
English Press Release
French Press Release
🔔 How We’re Celebrating in Our Parish
On Sunday, July 27, 2025, we will offer a special prayer during the Divine Liturgy for all grandparents and elderly members of our community — especially those who have passed the faith on to us.
💬 We invite everyone — especially families with children and youth — to join in this prayer and celebration of gratitude for those who have shaped our lives with wisdom and love.
https://www.cccb.ca/faith-moral-issues/family-and-life/grandparents-and-the-elderly/