Arua Diocese Honors Elders on World Day for Grandparents, celebrating Sts. Joachim and Anne
Arua Diocese joined the universal Church in celebrating the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly at
Ediofe Cathedral on Sunday, August 31, 2025. The day, instituted by Pope Francis in 2021, is observed
annually on the fourth Sunday of July, close to the Feast of Saints Joachim and Anne, the grandparents
of Jesus. This year's celebration in Arua Diocese was extended to August 31 due to the recent ordination
within the diocese, which welcomed 18 new clergy.
When instituting the day in 2021, Late Pope Francis called on Christians to honor the elderly, never
abandoning them but treasuring their company and wisdom. "Let us honour them, neither depriving ourselves
of their company nor depriving them of ours. May we never allow the elderly to be cast aside," he said. He
also encouraged young people to bring joy to the elderly, just as Mary did, and to learn from their experiences.
This year's celebration in Arua Diocese was held under the theme: "Blessed are those who have not lost hope"
(cf. Sir 14:2). The main celebrant, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Afeku, urged Christians not to give up in times of hardship.
"When we face problems, we easily give up. Let us learn from Saints Joachim and Anne, who persevered for many years
before receiving God's blessing. Like them, we too must endure so that others may draw strength from our perseverance
," he said.
Mr. Abert Apio, Chairperson of the Elders in Arua Diocese, announced that this day will be celebrated annually
throughout the diocese to instill in the younger generation a deep appreciation for the elderly.
Rev. Fr. James Edema, Pastoral Coordinator of Arua Diocese, in his remarks reminded Christians that everyone
is a "candidate for elderly life." He added: "In our respective places, let us value the elderly. Let us make
them feel our concern. Where they are now, we too shall hopefully reach one day."
