Pope Francis has established throughout the Church the celebration of the World Day for Grandparents and Elderly on the fourth Sunday of July, near the liturgical memorial of Saints Joachim and Anne, the grandparents of Jesus.

The theme for this year’s celebration is “In Old Age They Will Still Bear Fruit” (Ps. 92:15). The theme is meant to emphasize how grandparents are a gift both to society and the Church. For more information on the theme please see the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life’s announcement. Read the Holy Father’s message for the Second World Day for Grandparents and Elderly.

-Taken from the USCCB

PRAYER FOR THE SECOND WORLD DAY FOR
GRANDPARENTS AND THE ELDERLY

I give thanks to you, Lord,
For the blessing of a long life
For, to those who take refuge in You,
Grant always to bear fruit.
Forgive, O Lord,
Resignation and disillusionment,
But forsake me not
When my strength declines.
Teach me to look with hope
To the future you give me,
To the mission you entrust to me
And to sing your praises without end.
Make me a tender craftsman
Of Your revolution,
To guard with love my grandchildren
And all the little ones who seek shelter in You.
Protect, O Lord, Pope Francis
And grant Thy Church
To deliver the world from loneliness.
Direct our steps in the way of peace.
Amen.