Catholic Bishops in Kenya Call for Closeness with Grandparents ahead of Maiden Celebration

“The purpose of this year’s World Day is to convey to every elderly person that God and the Church are close to them and also to emphasize intergenerational closeness between young and old,” Catholic Bishops in Kenya say in the statement signed by KCCB Chairman, Archbishop Martin Kivuva.

KCCB members acknowledge the blessings that come with old age, saying, “Old age is a blessing. Ageing brings wisdom, strategic thinking and social responsibility.”

They further recall the Holy Father’s message in which he highlights the important role that the elderly play in shaping the future of young people. In his January 31 message, Pope Francis says, “Old age is a precious treasure that takes shape in the journey of every man and woman's life, whatever their origins, background, economic or social conditions.”

According to the Holy Father, life is a gift. He says that when life is long, it is a privilege, for oneself and for others.

“Grandparents are the indispensable link in educating children and young people in the faith,” says Pope Francis.

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In their message, Catholic Bishops in Kenya observe that elderly people face numerous challenges including loneliness that has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The older persons have unique challenges that are socio-economic, emotional and physical. They face the risk of isolation and loneliness,” KCCB members say, and add, “The COVID-19 pandemic has predisposed the elderly to more vulnerabilities.”

Catholic Bishops in Kenya call upon all Episcopal Sees in the East African country to devise various ways to mark the important day, saying that it will be “a great opportunity for coming together of grandparents, and grandchildren, the young and the old.”

Agnes Aineah is a Kenyan journalist with a background in digital and newspaper reporting. She holds a Master of Arts in Digital Journalism from the Aga Khan University, Graduate School of Media and Communications and a Bachelor's Degree in Linguistics, Media and Communications from Kenya's Moi University. Agnes currently serves as a journalist for ACI Africa.