The Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC), through its office for Formation, Life and Apostolate of the Laity, will join the universal Church in celebrating the Sixth World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly on Sunday, 26 July 2026, under the theme “I will never forget you” (Isaiah 49:15).

Established by Pope Francis in 2021, the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of July, close to the liturgical memorial of Saints Joachim and Anne, the grandparents of Jesus. The annual celebration recognises the precious vocation of grandparents and the elderly, whose faith, wisdom and witness continue to enrich the life and mission of the Church.

In his message for the Sixth World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, Pope Leo XIV reminds the faithful that God’s unwavering love reaches every person, especially those who experience loneliness, neglect or the frailties of old age.

Meanwhile, the SACBC office for Formation, Life and Apostolate of the Laity emphasises that, within Southern Africa, grandparents and the elderly are often the pillars of families and parish communities, preserving cultural traditions and passing on the Catholic faith to younger generations. At a time when many older people face economic hardship, isolation and the responsibility of raising grandchildren, the Church is called to accompany and support them.

Parishes are encouraged to celebrate a special Mass, organise visits to elderly and housebound parishioners, involve young people in intergenerational outreach, and include a special blessing for grandparents and senior citizens. Through these initiatives, the Church seeks to affirm that the elderly are not a burden but a blessing, whose faith, wisdom and witness continue to enrich the life of the community.