On February 4, the Good Samaritan mission organized a festive program for grandparents, which included a conference and a congratulatory concert.
During the conference, addressing the believers, Priest Alexander Shamritsky МІС drew attention to the role and responsibility of the older generation in the spiritual care of the youth. The priest recalled that in psychiatry there is such a thing as gerontophobia, translated from ancient Greek it literally means ”fear of the elderly.” Mental disorder manifests itself in a causeless fear of old age and death, a desire to avoid natural physiological aging by any means, even through plastic surgery. And also in a very negative attitude towards the elderly, as the embodiment of infirmity and disease. The Church teaches us that old age is not a punishment, but a gift. The grandparents of Jesus-Euphemia and Anna -became the heavenly patrons of families, are revered as righteous, honest people, full of trust and faith in God’s promise. Grandparents are a link between different generations and pass on life experience and faith to young people. The Holy Spirit awakens wise thoughts and words in elderly people: their voice is valuable, because it raises a hymn of praise to God and preserves the roots of peoples. That is why the future of the world depends on unity between the young and the elderly.
Archbishop Tadeusz Kondrusiewicz addressed the audience with words of greeting. He remembered with kind words his grandmother, through whom the translation of the experience of faith and spiritual experiences took place.
The pupils of the mission prepared a congratulatory concert for the grandparents. Theatrical, poetic and musical performances, words of tenderness and love from grandchildren sounded from the stage.
A joyful surprise for those present was the musical performance of the Nagual group. There were dances, round dances and a good mood!
Photos from the holiday from Gennady Buka can be found in the photo album ”Grandparents’ Day”.