On 28 July last, over 5000 grandparents and elderly from across Ireland, along with multi-generational families, gathered at the Shrine of Our Lady of Knock to celebrate the Catholic Grandparents Association National Grandparents Pilgrimage and World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly under the theme: Do not cast me off in old age.
The event was graced by chief celebrant, the Apostolic Nuncio to Ireland, His Excellency Archbishop Luis Mariano Montemayor; Bishop Denis Nulty of Kildare and Leighlin; and Father Richard Gibbons PP, Rector of Knock Shrine.
Hundreds of children’s beautifully decorated prayers in honour of their grandparents adorned the altar. Standing beside Pope Benedict’s prayer for Grandparents, Bishop Nulty, with a young boy and girl, Callum and Jenna, lit a candle for the intercession and prayers of all grandparents and elderly in our communities.
In her address, Catherine Wiley – pictured above from left to right: Marilyn Henry National International Coordinator of CGA; Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Montemayor; Catherine Wiley, founder of the Catholic Grandparents Association; and former Eurovision Song Contest winner and MEP Dana Rosemary Scallon -praised the grandparents of Ireland for their prayers, perseverance, and dedication to their faith. Ms Wiley highlighted that, their efforts had led to the establishment of the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, declared by Pope Francis four years ago.
Ms Wiley said, “This declaration ensures that the legacy of faith and the seeds we have sown will endure long after we are gone. We can all think of this accomplishment as a jewel in Our Lady’s crown, placed there by grandparents, and cemented forever so that this day will be filled with grace and blessings for all attendees.”
This Pilgrimage and World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly takes place on the fourth Sunday of July every year.
To view photos from the event click here.
ENDS
