6th World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly: “I Will Never Forget You”

June 26 marked the announcement of the 6th World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, which will be celebrated on Sunday, July 26. This annual day invites the Church to pause, reflect, and give thanks for the gift of grandparents and elderly people, whose faith, wisdom, and quiet witness continue to bless families, parishes, and communities in many hidden and powerful ways.

The theme chosen by Pope Leo XIV for this year is “I will never forget you” (Is 49:15). These words speak with tenderness and hope to everyone who may feel lonely, overlooked, or forgotten. They remind us that God’s love is constant and personal. The Lord knows each of us by name, remembers every life, and never abandons his children, even in the frailty and vulnerability that can come with age.

For Christians, this message carries a deep and practical calling. Grandparents and elderly people are not only to be remembered on one special day, but honoured as precious members of the Body of Christ throughout the year. Their prayers, sacrifices, memories, and example of faith help shape the life of the Church and pass on treasures that cannot be replaced. In many families, they are the ones who teach children to pray, tell the stories of the family, and show what it means to remain faithful through every season of life.

This day also reminds us that care for the elderly is an important part of Christian life. We are called not only to respect older people, but to stay close to them, listen to them, and support them in practical ways. A phone call, a visit, a shared meal, or a simple conversation can mean more than we realize. For elderly neighbours or others who are alone or unable to leave home, even a short prayer offered with them or for them can bring comfort and peace.

As we prepare to celebrate this day, let us renew our gratitude for the grandparents and elderly people in our lives. Let us thank God for their witness, their prayers, and their love. Let us also make a simple commitment to begin with those closest to us: visit your grandparents more often, call them, ask how they are doing, and take time to talk with them. Reach out to elderly neighbours or people you know who may be alone, and remember them in prayer.

The Holy Father’s message and the pastoral materials prepared for this celebration are available to help parishes and dioceses reflect on the day and mark it in a meaningful way. May this be an opportunity to grow in gratitude, compassion, and Christian care for the elderly.

Message from Pope Leo XIV

Pastoral materials