The event ‘The caress and the smile’ in the Vatican
On April 27, the event ‘The caress and the smile’ was held in the Paul VI classroom of the Vatican, with the participation of around 6,000 grandparents, grandchildren and the elderly, meeting with Pope Francis. The purpose of this meeting is to encourage dialogue between generations and highlight the value of the elderly in the social and cultural sphere.
Christian values and awareness
This act is based on Christian values that highlight the rights of the elderly and seeks to raise awareness of these rights, as well as the corresponding duties of the rest of the community. The aim is to offer new perspectives on old age and highlight the richness of this stage of life.
Revaluation of the third age
In addition, it is intended to revalue the elderly, highlighting the heritage that this stage offers. Through this event, a special harmony, a union and an affective dimension between grandparents and grandchildren is highlighted, which is not always found in other generations.
Initiatives for the elderly
The meeting with the Pope is an initiative of the Età Grande Foundation, under the auspices of the Pontifical Academy for Life. The representative of the Foundation, Mario Marazziti, highlights the intention to humanize the world, showing care towards those affected by isolation and loneliness.
Outstanding participation
During the event, Archbishop Paglia and Italian actor Lino Banfi reflected on the relationship between grandparents and grandchildren. In addition, the meeting had the participation of the singer Al Bano and the choir of the diocese of Rome, directed by Marco Frisina. In addition to the presence of the Pope, testimonies were shared by three grandparents and three grandchildren.
