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Sixth World Day of Grandparents and Older Persons: “I Will Not Forget You”
Pope Leo XIV invites everyone to celebrate July 26 with a Mass in every cathedral and asks families and local churches not to leave the elderly alone
The sixth World Day of Grandparents and Older Persons will be celebrated on Sunday, July 26, 2026, coinciding with the liturgical memorial of Saints Joachim and Anne, the grandparents of Jesus. The motto chosen by Pope Leo XIV, taken from the prophet Isaiah (49:15), is “I will not forget you.”
With this title, the Pope reminds us that God’s love never abandons anyone, not even in the fragility of old age, and makes a clear appeal to families, parishes and Christian communities to recognize the value and blessing that grandparents and the elderly represent.
The Pope has expressly requested that a solemn Mass be celebrated in the cathedral of each diocese as the central event of the day. Furthermore, the Dicastery for the Laity, Family and Life will provide all local churches with pastoral materials to facilitate the organization of activities adapted to their specific circumstances.
Established by Pope Francis in 2021 and always celebrated on the fourth Sunday of July, this day seeks to highlight the Church’s closeness to the elderly and combat their isolation. Last year, Leo XIV himself encouraged a “revolution of gratitude and care” that takes shape in frequent visits, companionship, and recognition of the irreplaceable role of the elderly in transmitting faith and wisdom.
With this celebration, the Church reaffirms that no one should feel forgotten: neither by God nor by their community.
Exaudi Staff
What is Exaudi News? Exaudi News is an international Catholic media outlet that informs, shapes, and transforms daily in Spanish, English, and Italian. Through news, analytical articles, and live broadcasts of the Pope's events, Exaudi seeks to strengthen Christian unity and contribute to the evangelization of the world, always guided by the Church's social doctrine. We work to bring Christian truth and values to every corner of the planet. Help us transform the world with Exaudi! At Exaudi, we believe that evangelization and quality information can change lives. To continue our mission and expand our reach, we need your help. In addition, we are looking for committed people to join our team. With your support, we will reach more people, spread the message of Christ, and strengthen Christian unity. Will you join our mission? For more information on how to collaborate, visit Exaudi.org or contact us directly: [email protected] Exaudi: Informs, educates, and transforms.
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