World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly 2024

From the first year, the Jerusalem Community adopted this day and made it a custom. Towards the end of the Mass (celebrated by fr. David), fr. Benny blessed the 5 "spiritual grandmothers" of the community: sister Regine (103), the Little Sisters Miriam and Elizabeth (93), as well as Ruhama and Cecil (89).

Placing a wreath of flowers on their heads, fr. Benny quoted the verses:

Psalm 65:12: "You adorn the year with your bounty; your paths drip with fruitful rain."

Psalm 103:4: "(He) Who redeems your life from the pit, (..) crowns you with mercy and compassion."

And then delivered a blessing composed especially for this occasion:

God of Mercy,

You who have granted these your sons/daughters the gift of long life,

Bestow upon them Your blessing.

May they feel the sweetness and strength of your presence,

Rejoice and be glad in your mercy as they look upon the past,

And persevere in the hope of eternal life as they look upon the future.

To you be praise and glory forever and ever.

Following the Lord’s Supper, our community members and guests enjoyed a festive refreshment in the community yard. The atmosphere was filled with joy as everyone gathered around a game table to cheer on and support the five women of our corps who participated in a challenging and entertaining game tournament. Each participant received a prize of their choice, reflecting their achievements in the competition.

We give thanks to God, the God of life, who has blessed us with long life and abundant wisdom.