Pope Francis: The Elderly are a blessing to the Church

Source: Vatican News

Old age is a "precious treasure" in the life of every man and woman regardless of their origin, or economic status, the Pope has said.

"Life is a gift, and when it is long it is a privilege, for oneself and for others. Always," he said, while addressing a conference on pastoral ministry for the elderly at the Vatican.

In the Bible, "longevity is a blessing," he added, and later spoke of the "irreplaceable role of the elderly" in the saving plan of God.

In particular, Pope Francis said that grandparents were "the indispensable link in educating children and young people in the faith". The elderly, he insisted, should be not only the objects of the Church's care, but also had a role to play in pastoral ministry and evangelising as "privileged witnesses of God's faithful love".

Both old and young, he said, are "the future of the Church".

Observing that significant demographic changes mean that there are now fewer young people and a great increase in the number of the elderly, the Pope said that the issues the elderly face - such as indifference and rejection - are a call to the Church and society to engage in "serious reflection" in order to "grasp and apple

He called on the Church to care for the elderly, going to them with "a smile on your face and the Gospel in your hands".

Referring to the theme of the three-day conference, Pope Francis said "the richness of many years of life… is the richness of people, of every single person who has many years of life experience and history behind them".

After welcoming the conference, he asked that it not remain "an isolated initiative", but might be the start "of a journey of pastoral deepening and discernment". He added: "We need to change our pastoral habits in order to respond to the presence of so many older people in our families and communities", he said.

Pope Francis concluded his address with words of encouragement, saying, "Do not be afraid. Take initiatives. Help your Bishops and Dioceses to promote pastoral service to and with the elderly. Do not be discouraged… Go forward!"