The late Pope Francis spoke frequently about the need to value people at all stages of life, and in particular the importance of fostering connections between the old and the young, encouraging families to ensure children have time with their grandparents, and all generations have respect for each other. In 2022, he noted that “the Lord does not entrust his talents only to the young and the strong. He has talents for everyone, made to fit each person, the elderly too. The life of our communities must know how to benefit from the talents and charisms of so many elderly people who are already retired, but who are a wealth to be treasured.’ Pope Leo XIV on the Jubilee for Families, Children, Grandparents and the Elderly said “All of us are alive today thanks to a relationship, a free and freeing relationship of human kindness and mutual care.”.
On 8 July, Caritas Diocese of Plymouth will be hosting a talk by Helen Calder, an author and teacher on Retiring Well. Helen’s work focuses on how we consider the implications of retirement from full time work and how we can pray and plan for a a purposeful, fulfilled retirement. We know that we have an ageing demographic in the South West. How can we ensure that we offer people opportunities for a happy and fruitful time in later life?
All are welcome to this event – whether planning for retirement or already retired. It will be a time to reflect and discuss how we can continue to share our gifts and talents throughout life and how our communities can. The event will be at St Mary’s Church hall, 211A Wimborne Rd, Poole BH15 2EG from 7.15-9pm. There is ample parking.
“Take courage, all of us older people! Take courage and go forth! We have a very great mission in the world.’
Pope Francis 25th May 2022
Registration not essential but it would be appreciated https://forms.office.com/e/pVWEABhhDX