WITNESSES FOR LIFE

...Pray for grandparents, who, in the family, are the depositories and often witnesses of the fundamental values of life.

"EVEN MORE IMPORTANT"

The educational task of grandparents is always very important, and it becomes even more so when, for various reasons, the parents are unable to provide their children with an adequate presence while they are growing up.

"A GREAT TREASURE"

The Church has always paid special attention to grandparents, recognizing them as a great treasure from both the human and social, as well as religious and spiritual viewpoints.

"IMPORTANT ROLE"

In the past, grandparents had an important role in the life and growth of the family. Even with their advancing age they continued to be present with their children, their grandchildren, and even their great-grandchildren, giving a living witness of caring, sacrifice and a daily gift of themselves without reserve.

THE THREAT OF THE CULTURE OF DEATH

Unfortunately, it seems that the "culture of death" is advancing on many fronts and is also threatening the season of old-age. With growing insistence, people are even proposing euthanasia as a solution for resolving certain difficult situations.

"THE LIGHT OF THE TRUTH"

Old age, with its problems that are also linked to the new family and social contexts because of modern development, should be evaluated carefully and always in the light of the truth about man, the family, and the community. It is always necessary to react strongly to what dehumanizes society.

"JOIN FORCES"

It is necessary to join forces to defeat together all forms of marginalization, for it is not only they grandfathers, grandmothers, senior citizens who are being injured by the individualistic mindset, but everyone. If grandparents, as is often said and on many sides, are a precious resource, it is necessary to put into practice coherent choices that allow them to be better valued.

"NOURISH FAITH AND HOPE"

May the Virgin Mary ... help them [grandparents] always to nourish their faith and hope at the sources of the Word of God.

(Sources: Angelus, 7/26/09; Address to Pontifical Council for the Family, 4/5/08)