I recently used this article with my junior Theology students at Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin (NDCL) to discuss values and attitudes of the Catholic Church as portrayed in the media. We all agreed that this article was a positive image of the Church, in respecting not only the beginning of life issues, but also those dealing with the end-of-life. Some student comments:
- We need more voices to speak up, shine a light on the issues, advocating for the elderly in our society.
- No one is worthless; everyone has a purpose.
- The Pope showed great humility and compassion for others; he did this out of the love in his heart.
- The elderly are an important asset to society, the people who taught us best.
- Families have special bonds and love each other; they show the closeness of God’s family, whom He loves dearly.
In a month when we celebrate giving thanks for our many graces and blessings, we should certainly include those who have been wisdom figures for our lives. Grandparents come in many forms: our own family members, neighbors, friends and mentors, still living or from a bygone era.
Perhaps today, we can find or make time to contact one of our cherished elders, to brighten their day, to help them realize how much we value them, to thank them for transmitting to us “wisdom and faith, the most precious heritage.”
Sister Emilia Castelletti, SND is a theology teacher at Notre Dame Cathedral Latin High School in Chardon, OH.
Notre Dame Sister Kathleen Ryan is the Director of the Diocese of Cleveland Social Action Office. She is responsible for creating and implementing programs and pursuing legislative advocacy for peace, social and economic justice. She is beginning her 25th year at Catholic Charities and the diocese after a nineteen year teaching career. She recently was named Coordinator of the Sisters of Norte Dame, Chardon, OH, Justice, Peace and the Integrity of Creation Committee. 
The Sisters of Notre Dame of Chardon, Ohio, belong to an international congregation of more than two thousand apostolic women religious. We are one in mind and one in heart for the transformation of the world in Christ. 
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Thanks, Emilia, for a good reminder and reflection. Too often impatience comes first, before valuing the wisdom we can glean from our elders.
Fine article, Emilia. Youth can be so gentle and caring with our elderly and nowadays their families are lucky enough to have them still with them. I would imagine they have many elderly neighbors as well. Good work!
Thank you and yes I did, a elderly Family frieend(s), just a phone call made a difference.