Missionaries of the Sacred

Catholic teaching tells us that each and every human person is made in the image of our Creator. No matter how old or how young, every person has dignity and deserves respect.

In 1999, Pope John Paull II reflected on the aging process in his Letter to the Elderly. Also in 1999, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops released a statement titled “Blessings of Age: A Pastoral Message on Growing Older Within the Faith Community”.  While it is important to be aware of and respond to the particular needs of older adults, one of the most important themes in the Bishops’ statement is that older adults have much to offer their faith community. It serves as a gentle reminder that we cannot become so focused on  helping others that we ignore the valuable service they can also offer us (and others).

Whether you are beginning to face some of the limitations that come with age, are caring for an aging spouse, relative or friend, or are simply looking for a balanced perspective on aging, we invite you to check out these documents.

1. How are the older members of your family treated?
2. Think of someone you consider “old”. How do you view that person? Do you respect him or her? Value their opinions? What do you admire and love about them?
3. How do you think God sees the person you were thinking about in the previous question? Try to see that person as God sees them.
4. In your own life, what have been some of the advantages of growing older? Can you relate to the blessings of age put forth by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops?

Catholic Quotes on Aging

“Aging can also entail a “crisis of meaning.” In later life you begin to wonder if your life has made a difference to anyone—if it has meaning. You may engage in reminiscing or life review. You look back at the events and relationships in your life, recognizing what is good and constructive and letting go of mistakes and failures. While you cannot change past events, you can ask God to help you change your attitudes and perception of them. Some past failures might now be seen as events from which you learned. Perhaps dealing with difficult people has taught you about patience and respect for different points of view.”