July 28, 2024 being the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, the Diocese of Baruipur did not miss the occasion to celebrate it in a befitting manner in different parishes. The theme chosen for this year by The Holy Father, Pope Francis “Do not cast me off in my old age (Psalm 71:9) is meant to call attention to the fact that loneliness is the bitter lot in life of many grandparents and elderly persons so often the victims of throw-away culture.

Most Rev. Shyamal Bose, the Bishop of the Diocese, travelled all the way from Baruipur to Nazat, St. Claret Catholic Church to be with the grandparents and the elderly. Around 180 faithful from all the substations gathered there gave a floral welcome with garland and washing of the feet as a sign of love and respect to the Bishop.

The Holy Mass began with an entrance dance along with the procession of grandparents. During the homily, His Lordship emphasized the importance of the presence of Grandparents and their significant role in caring for the grandchildren in the family and the need to care for the elderly grandparents. After the Holy Communion, the Bishop led the entire congregation to take oath and promise to look after the grandparents and the elderly in our families. Thereafter, a beautiful traditional cultural programme was organized to felicitate the Bishop and honour the grandparents during which Bishop gifted to the Grandparents the healthy and nutritious food products and Holy Rosaries as the token of his love. The Celebration came to an end by cutting of cake and sharing of fellowship meal.