Pope Leo XIV Urges Respect for Grandparents on World Day

On 26 July 2026 the Catholic Church marked the VI World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly. Pope Leo XIV’s message, titled “I will never forget you” (Isa 49:15), called on Christians to value older people, combat abandonment and violence, and to visit grandparents and seniors who are isolated. He urged families, parishes and societies to recognise the “precious role” of the elderly and to ensure they receive proper care and attention.

The Vatican’s Dicastery for the Laity, Family and Life issued guidelines for local celebrations, encouraging Eucharistic liturgies and home‑visit programs. Dioceses worldwide – from Belgium and Poland to Brazil, Portugal, Switzerland and Spain – reported special pilgrimages, homilies and testimonies highlighting the day’s theme. Charitable groups such as the Society of St. Vincent de Paul described how their homes for seniors embody the Pope’s call by restoring dignity and re‑uniting families.

Church leaders also addressed related social issues, warning that psychological abuse and ageism remain serious problems, especially in countries like Chile. The overall emphasis was a collective appeal to restore inter‑generational bonds and to celebrate the elders as a vital, hopeful presence in society.