Grandparents, elderly invited to online conference

The Catholic Grandparents Association of the Philippines is inviting grandparents and the elderly to join the Second Online National Conference for Grandparents and the Elderly on July 24 to 26 at 5 p.m.

With the theme “In old age they will still bear fruit,” the three day virtual gathering will feature reflections and sharing on the important role played by grandparents and the elderly in the spiritual development of the youth as well as their essential role in the family and society.

The conference is in line with the observance of World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly on July 24. July 26 is the feast day of Saints Joachim and Ann, the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the grandparents of Jesus, and the patron of grandparents and the elderly.

Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) president Kalookan Bishop Pablo Virgilio David will lead the opening rites. Speakers include Ms. Emily N. Beridinco, executive director of the Coalition of Services of the Elderly, Inc. (COSE) who will talk about the Context and Situation of the elderly in the Philippines (A Call to Reflection); Msgr. Manny Gabriel, assistant National Chaplain, Christian Family Movement (CFM) will discuss Grandparents and the elderly are a value and a gift both for society and for ecclesial communities; and Parañaque Bishop Jesse Mercado, chairman, CBCP-Episcopal Commission on Family and Life will talk about Wisdom and experience of the elderly in the context of the synodal journey of the Church (A call to Action).

Lipa Archbishop Gilbert Garcera, founder of the Catholic Grandparents Association of the Philippines will deliver the closing remarks.

In recognition of the important role played by grandparents and the elderly in the Church and society, Pope Francis offered his prayer intentions for the month of July in honor of grandparents and the elderly.