World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly
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Sunday, September 13, 2026Theme for 2026
In the United States, the “World Day For Grandparents and the Elderly” will be celebrated on September 13, 2026. Pope Leo chose the theme for this year from Isaiah 49:15:
“I Will Never Forget You”.
In his 2026 Message, Pope Leo wrote:For many, the discovery of God’s tenderness takes place over the course of their lives, sometimes even in its final stages. Indeed, unlike in the past, it is increasingly common to reach old age without having had a genuine experience of faith. In such cases, old age—beginning with the questions that arise with greater urgency during this season of life—can become the right time to begin or resume a spiritual life. … May the Lord always renew us in faith, hope and love—He who never forgets us!
You may read his full message online at the Vatican website or download a printable PDF document:
For additional resources, visit the Diocese of Fargo World Day For Grandparents and the Elderly page.
A Brief History
In 2021, Pope Francis established a “World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly”, to take place each year on the fourth Sunday in July (this date was chosen because it is close to the feast day of Sts. Joachim and Anne, the grandparents of Jesus). The bishops in the United States transferred the celebration to the Sunday in September after Labor Day to coincide with National Grandparents Day in the United States (see the USCCB website).Catechesis on Old Age
In 2022, Pope Francis’ Wednesday audience catecheses were reflections on old age. The 18 talks are available online from the Vatican website. It has also been compiled into a downloadable PDF document for those who do not have access to or prefer not to read the texts on a web browser: