P R A Y I N G W I T H T H E C H U R C H
|
INTENTION : |
For widows and widowers who often feel the pain of loneliness, that they may find comfort and support in the Christian community.
|
The Holy Father draws particular attention to the senior citizens in our midst who can contribute to the development of a genuine "culture of life" by bearing witness to the fact that every moment of their existence is a gift of God, and that every season of their human life has special gifts for the family to treasure and value.
He reminds the elderly that the time spent without the disturbance of so many occupations, notwithstanding the pain of loneliness, can stimulate them to a deeper reflection in prayer with God. Furthermore, they can accomplish a precious task by using their maturity to share with those who are younger the accumulated wisdom of their life-experiences. These would sustain the young in their growth right at the moment when they are embarking on a future by seeking their own way in life.
In a world that makes a myth of strength and power, the elderly have a mission to witness to the values that truly count. These values go beyond appearances and endure forever because they are engraved on the heart of every person by the Word of God. The Christian community, be it immediate or extended, is reminded to recognise these assets and its duty to provide comfort and support to the elderly who have so much to offer in their own unique way.
|
|
