In Old Age They Will Still Bear Fruit

That is the theme for the second World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly. It is from Psalm 92. In the US we celebrate Grandparents’ Day in September, but last year Pope Francis started a day for the church around the world to remember and pray for grandparents on the third Sunday of July. This is the closest Sunday to the feast day of Sts Anna and Joachim, the parents of Mary and grandparents of Jesus. We will bless grandparents at masses this weekend, but nothing stops you from praying for God to bless those you love. So as we honor and visit with our grandparents and elderly, here is A Blessing on a Long Life. You can find other resources on our Worship page.

God of mercy,
You have given ________ the gift of long life,
And she/he asks for your blessing.
Let her/him feel the tenderness and strength of your presence.
As she/he looks back to the past,
let her/him rejoice in your mercy.
As she/he looks to the future,
May she/he persevere in hope that does not fade.
To you be praise and glory for ever.

Amen.