Grandparents in the Bible: through their life mission, they contributed to the history of Salvation

“The fulfilment of a meaningful life for younger generations depends on recognizing the presence and richness that grandparents and the elderly represent for us. And this recognition must go hand in hand with respect – respect that is truly expressed through acceptance, care, and the appreciation of their dignity. Not only the appreciation of the dignity of the elderly, but of old age itself, which is both a gift and a value.” With these words, Professor Gabriella Gambino addressed participants at the presentation of Rosalba Manes' book “Tessitori di speranza. I nonni nella Bibbia” [Weavers of Hope: Grandparents in the Bible] (Leoniana International, 2025), which took place on Thursday, 30 January, in Rome.

The event provided an opportunity to reflect, alongside the author and participants, on the deep value of a long life. During her speech, Gambino commented: “Not only must there be respect for the elderly as individuals – a recognition that we still need to bring to light in today’s social and cultural landscape – but also an identity of being elderly that translates into a mission.” It is precisely this awareness of having a mission that connects the biblical figures of grandparents with today’s elderly. “In fact, even in weakness, the elderly can become instruments of the history of salvation for others: a grandchild, a daughter-in-law, or a lonely elderly friend,” Gambino continued. “This message must be passed on to younger generations. We need to create real conditions that foster an exchange of gifts among generations.”

At the end, the Undersecretary urged people to “grow old with gratitude – for life and for God – becoming elders who can inspire courage and hope in the young, witnesses of faith who know how to seek forgiveness and forgive all evil, transforming the future into something good for younger generations. But this cannot happen by chance; it is mainly up to us and must be built day by day, starting from youth: by taking care of our hearts, safeguarding our baptismal dignity, and nurturing it in Christ every day.”

The event was moderated by Agensir’s journalist, Amerigo Vecchiarelli. Along with the author, participants included Cardinal Marc Ouellet, former Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, and Professor Vincenzo Valentini, Director of the Department of Radiation, Medical, and Diagnostic Oncology at Gemelli-Isola Hospital.