Grandparents’ Day: Sharing faith and wisdom across generations

On 28 July, Catholics worldwide celebrated the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly. In the preceding week, we initiated a conversation with our supporters through Facebook and Instagram, coinciding with the Feast of Saints Anne and Joachim. This sparked a heartwarming exchange of wisdom and experiences across generations.

Our posts encouraged a community-wide discussion, suggesting: ‘Together, let’s build a community of faith that spans generations. Whether you’re seeking advice, or have pearls of wisdom to share, join the conversation!’

Creating a ‘more open’ welcome for little ones

The response from Missio supporters didn’t disappoint! Many supporters sought advice on faith formation. On Facebook, the conversation addressed challenges faced by Catholic families in England and Wales, and concerns about the Church’s future.

Emily expressed the difficulties of bringing toddlers and very young children to Mass. This sparked a supportive discussion, with older Missio supporters offering encouragement, as well as advice.

Alastair, a catechist with grown children, sympathised:

‘The first time I took my daughter to our parish, she shot out of the bench and, before I could catch her, scooted down to the Lady chapel and began saying the “Our Father” at the top of her voice- all in the Consecration! Embarrassing at the time – but fond memories 24 years later!’

while Teresa answered:

‘I read myself in my local church and we have small children that attend with their families … A church without children is a community that’s lacking a future. Please be assured that for every complaint, there’s somebody that’s been in your situation and really doesn’t mind a fractious baby.’

Alastair emphasised:

‘It is important to remember that little people have as much right to be in church as anyone else. If babies cry it’s just their way of using their God-given voice! Church is not an exclusive club – it’s an open house!’

Welcoming teens in Church

Many participants sought advice on encouraging young adults and teenagers to stay in Church. Kathy suggested:

‘I have found that being involved in playing music and singing in the parish can really help -obviously dependant on the kind of music your parish will allow! My parish is kind and will give most things a go – especially if they think it’ll encourage a younger member of the parish to stay!’

Alastair also shared inspiring anecdotes about teenagers’ faith, noting:

‘Teenagers have great faith – they’re just a bit hesitant to express it. I run the catechesis for Confirmation and we have young people from Y9 & Y10. A couple of years ago a young lad joined the group and we’d been discussing heroes and role models. The young man said “Pope Francis – he’s a dude! He really is!” I felt that this came from the heart – it was the highest praise he could have given.’

Teresa offered practical advice:

‘Maybe have a word with your Parish Priest? Sometimes it takes a bit of brain storming to find something that might interest them. Our school next to church sometimes likes to help with tea and coffee after Mass so they have a bit of responsibility for something…’

While Theresa shared a simple yet effective tradition:

‘On the first Sunday of the month, at all the Sunday Masses, our Priest asks the people present who have a birthday that month to come forward. The birthday folks then face the congregation and the Priest/Deacon says a special prayer over them and then we all sing happy birthday to them… Lovely to see young and old standing together and sharing a special moment.’

Openly expressing faith

Our supporters also emphasised the importance of openly discussing faith between generations. Pat said:

‘How to get children and young people to talk about their faith is an age-old problem but we should not ignore it. I don’t think a lot of parents openly talk about their beliefs or show that they have questions or difficulties with what the Catholic Church teaches. I know we didn’t either when I was a child or when bringing up my own children.’

Theresa agreed:

‘Yes, it is about chatting in a natural way about life/faith. I always remember my Dad (who was born in 1922) telling me that when he was a teenager he decided there was no point going to Mass on a Sunday. His mother suggested that he just go the next Sunday and then make a decision. The reading was “can you not spend one hour with me?” (Jesus to his disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane) so my Dad decided to keep attending Sunday Mass!’

Beloved traditions of faith: Praying the Rosary together

On Instagram, supporters shared their families’ cherished traditions. Maddie fondly recalled:

‘We always used to say the Rosary in front of the crib at Christmas, and I loved that!’

Teresa shared:

‘We said the Rosary every evening for much of my childhood always at six pm … I remember my mother making a strong statement of a family that prays together, stays together.’

Dom also remembered fond traditions in his family:

‘We used to pray the Rosary together during the month of November for the Repose of Souls, especially for deceased family members. We would walk together as a family, parish, and local community for Corpus Christi. 🙏’

Our intergenerational missionary family

We prepared for the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly by honouring the wisdom of elders and reinforcing the importance of intergenerational dialogue.

As the day progressed, the online forums became a virtual meeting place for Missio supporters of all ages, fostering a sense of community and shared mission. The exchange demonstrated the vital role that grandparents and elders play in passing on faith, while also highlighting the fresh perspectives that younger generations bring to the Church.

We’re inspired by our supporters’ commitment to maintaining an inclusive Catholic community – one which will surely create the foundations needed for a vibrant Church of tomorrow!