Catholic Identity

Last Friday we celebrated the Feast of St Anne and St Joachim alongside our own Grandparent’s Day.  

Saint Anne and Saint Joachim are the parents of Mary, and the grandparents of Jesus. Their feast day is 26th July. 

Though the Bible does not tell us much about Anne and Joachim, tradition holds that they were faithful, loving people who trusted deeply in God.  

Saint Anne and Saint Joachim remind us of the importance of family, faith, and passing on love and wisdom to younger generations. They are patron saints of grandparents and a beautiful example of how we can nurture and guide others through prayer, kindness, and trust in God. 

O Lord, God of our Fathers, 

who bestowed on Saints Joachim and Anne this grace, 

that of them should be born the Mother of your incarnate Son, grant, through the prayers of both, 

that we may attain the salvation 

you have promised to your people. 

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, 

who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, 

one God, for ever and ever. 

Amen. 

Grandparents Day, Friday 25th July

Grandparents are like stars. You don’t always see them, but you know they’re there.  

Grandparents are bright and warm. Guide them and look after them always, including those who couldn’t be here today.  

Grandparents always have time for you when everyone else is too busy.  

Grandparents are like magicians. They can create wonderful memories for their grandchildren out of thin air. 

Grandparents are for loving and fixing things.  

Grandparents are a safe haven.  

Grandparents serve kisses, cuddles and cookies daily.  

Parents know a lot, but grandparents know everything.  

Blessed are those who spoil and snuggle, hug and hope, pray and pamper, for they shall be called grandparents.