Pastoral Suggestions
—Each parish is asked to recognize Grandparents and
the Elderly this weekend, July 23rd/24th, in honor of the
Second World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly.
—Encourage young people to visit or call their grand-
parents this weekend.
—Encourage visitation to an older person living alone.
—Publish in the bulletin or provide copies of the “Prayer
for Grandparents and the Elderly.” (see below).
—Plenary Indulgence: The Apostolic Penitentiary prom-
ulgated a Decree granting a Plenary Indulgence on the
occasion of World Day for Grandparents and the Elder-
ly. The elderly can obtain an Indulgence by attending
Mass this weekend, July 23rd/24th. The Indulgence is
also granted to all those who perform a ‘work of mercy’
by visiting an elderly person who is alone.

Prayer for the Second World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly
I give thanks to you, Lord, for the blessing of a long life.
For, to those who take refuge in You, grant always to
bear fruit.
Forgive, O Lord, resignation and disillusionment, and
forsake me not when my strength declines. Teach me to look with hope to the future you give me, to
the mission you entrust to me and to sing your praises
without end. Make me a tender craftsman of your revolution, to
guard with love my grandchildren and all the little ones
who seek shelter in You. Protect, O Lord, Pope Francis and grant Thy Church to
deliver the world from loneliness. Direct our steps in the
way of peace. Amen

Prayer of Blessing
God of mercy
You give Your children the gift of long life, and they ask for Your blessing. May all grandparents and the elderly feel the tenderness and strength of Your presence. As they recall the past let them rejoice in Your mercy. As they look to the future, may they persevere in hope
that does not fade. May your blessing come upon all grandparents and the
elderly this day, in the name of the Father and the Son
and the Holy Spirit. Amen.