Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has offered a message of hope and encouragement to grandparents and elderly people around the world, reminding them that God’s loving eyes are always upon them and that they are never forgotten.
Pope’s message was released by the Vatican for the Sixth World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly, which will be celebrated on the fourth Sunday of July. This year’s theme is “I will never forget you,” taken from the Book of Isaiah.
Reflecting on the words of the prophet Isaiah, Pope Leo said that God assures every person of His unfailing love. He recalled the biblical passage in which God says that He has engraved His people on the palms of His hands and that His love is even greater than a mother’s love for her child.
Pope noted that these words continue to speak to people today, especially those who may feel abandoned, lonely, or forgotten. He acknowledged that many elderly people experience such feelings, particularly when they face isolation, illness, or the challenges that often come with old age.
“At any age, it is always possible to recognize ourselves as sons and daughters of God,” Pope said, stressing that no one loses their dignity or value in the eyes of God.
Pope Leo described the World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly as an important opportunity for the Church to show its closeness to older people and to remind them that they remain beloved members of the Christian community.
Pope also used the occasion to encourage younger generations to strengthen their relationship with elderly family members and neighbours. He invited young people to revive the beautiful tradition of visiting grandparents and elderly relatives and to reach out even to those who have no family members to visit them.
He said that such encounters can bring comfort, affection, and a sense of belonging to older people who may otherwise feel alone. The Pope encouraged families and communities to show tenderness and care towards their elderly loved ones.
Quoting the words of Blessed John Paul I, Pope Leo reminded the faithful that God’s love never fades. Even in moments of darkness and uncertainty, God continues to watch over His children with the care of a loving parent.
Pope also reflected on the spiritual journey of older people. He observed that many people today reach old age without having had a deep experience of faith. Yet he stressed that God never stops drawing close to them and inviting them into a relationship with Him.
“It is never too late to begin turning to Him,” Pope said, describing faith as a gift that can be discovered at any stage of life.
Addressing the elderly directly, Pope Leo urged them not to be afraid of their fragility. While old age may bring physical weakness, he said it can also be a time of spiritual renewal and growth. He suggested that people can, in a sense, be born anew even in the later years of life.
Pope also expressed concern about the violence, wars, and social unrest affecting many parts of the world. He noted that many grandparents worry about the future that awaits their grandchildren and invited elderly people everywhere to join him in praying for peace.
Concluding his message, Pope Leo thanked older people for their constant prayers and support, especially those who pray the Rosary daily. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude and assured them of his closeness.
Pope ended with a prayer that God may continue to renew all people in faith, hope, and love, reminding the elderly that the Lord never forgets them and remains close to them throughout every stage of life.