The Biblical heritage has maintained a special place for the elderly in human society.  The Jewish and Christian faith communities have continued to promote a respect for the wisdom and experience of those blessed with a long life. Tragically, in some modern societies there is a tendency to disparage the spiritual value of the presence of those who become infirm in their time on earth. Of course, we appreciate the progress of medicine and science in easing the aches and pains of the passing years! However, may the length of a person’s life never be left to the decision of a committee!

Recently Pope Francis instituted the “World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly,” to be celebrated on July 25^th, the Feast of Saints Anne and Joachim, the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In Canada devotion to St. Anne has a long history, so integrating a new dimension to the feast will be an extension of its impact for pilgrims to the shrine of Ste. Anne de Beauprès in Quebec and to Lac Ste. Anne in Alberta.

The Pontifical Academy for Life offers a document “Old Age: Our future. The condition of the elderly after the pandemic.” 

May these teachings hear much fruit for a deeper humane response to the challenges of life!