In a show of deep respect for the elderly, the Vatican is granting a plenary indulgence this year. This spiritual gift is part of the third annual World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly on July 23. All Catholics, particularly the elderly and grandparents, who participate in related events can avail this indulgence.
The theme for Grandparents’ Day 2023 is inspired by the Gospel of Luke: “His mercy is from age to age.” Pope Francis, who chose this theme, underscores the spiritual significance of the event.
Cardinal Mauro Piacenza, the leader of the Vatican’s Apostolic Penitentiary, issued the decree. He asked priests to be readily available for confessions in anticipation of the event. This step ensures the faithful are in a state of grace, a requirement for gaining the indulgence.
Participants must be completely detached from sin and offer prayers for the Pope’s intentions. Importantly, they also need to spend substantial time on July 23 visiting the elderly. This especially applies to those visiting the sick, isolated, or disabled elderly members of the community.
What if one can’t attend the event physically? No worries. Those unable to participate in person due to health or other serious issues can still gain the indulgence. They can spiritually engage with the celebrations, offering prayers and sharing in the suffering while viewing the Mass on TV or online.
World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly has been a part of the church calendar since 2021. Instituted by Pope Francis, it serves as a crucial reminder of the elderly’s essential role in our faith and our lives.
