Time seems to slow down during the summer. Our daily schedules may be less hectic, families make the most of the school break, and we spend extra time with family and friends. It’s also a great time to celebrate the grandparents and the elderly in your life, and to devote some time to praying for the sick or learning more about one of the most overlooked sacraments in the Church: the sacrament of anointing.
World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly will be Sunday, July 28. This year’s theme chosen by Pope Francis is a line from Psalm 71: “Do not cast me off in my old age.” It’s a reminder that “sadly, loneliness is the bitter lot in life of many elderly persons, so often the victims of the throwaway culture,” the Vatican explains. Grandparents and the elderly in our lives have a special charism – bridging the generations, offering unconditional love, wisdom and the benefit of their life experiences, as well as contributing to the life of the Church. It is important to honor them, spend time with them, and show them you care. Check out “5 Ways To Honor Your Catholic Grandparents” at www.catholic-link.org/catholic-grandparents-honor. And for people in the Charlotte area, consider joining a new chapter of the Catholic Grandparents Association (www.catholicgrandparentsassociation.org).