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“I will never forget you” (cf. Isaiah 49:5)The Catholic Church celebrates the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly each year on the Sunday closest to the feast of Sts. Joachim and Anne, Jesus' grandparents. However, The U.S. bishops approved the transfer of the celebration of this observance to the first Sunday after Labor Day, this year Sunday, September 13, to coincide with the National celebration of Grandparents Day in the United States which many local communities, schools, and parishes observe.
The theme chosen by the Holy Father, “I will never forget you” (cf. Isaiah 49:5), reminds us that God’s unwavering love is the ultimate answer to the isolation and neglect so often experienced by the elderly. It brings comfort and hope, assuring us that the Lord knows each of us personally, forgets no one, and loves us unconditionally, even through the frailties of old age.
The Dicastery for the Laity, Family and Life renews to everyone Pope Francis’ invitation to celebrate the Day in every diocese, and to dedicate the celebrations of Sunday 27 July to the elderly, promoting visits and opportunities for encounters between the generations.
USCCB Resources
Vatican Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life Resources