- 07 October, 2025
Vatican, 7 October, 2025 – In a deeply reflective address at an international conference on pastoral care held at the Vatican, Bishop Rayarala Vijaykumar of Srikakulam, India, underscored the profound dignity and spiritual richness of the elderly. The conference, organised by the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life, took place from October 2 to 4 and brought together around 150 delegates from 65 nations, representing 55 bishops' conferences alongside numerous religious associations dedicated to the care and accompaniment of the elderly.
Bishop Vijaykumar, accompanied by his wheelchair-bound mother and sister, shared a poignant encounter with Pope Leo XIV during the papal audience. As the Holy Father approached, he leaned forward to bless the bishop’s mother, who tenderly touched the Pope’s cheeks and then her forehead—a gesture of reverence and affection deeply rooted in Indian culture.
“The Prefect of the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life, Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, facilitated this participation,” acknowledged Bishop Rayarala with heartfelt gratitude. Delivering his presentation in Italian, the bishop reflected on the spirituality of the elderly within the broader socio-cultural and religious landscape of India.
Drawing inspiration from the teachings of Pope Francis, he urged the audience to regard the elderly not as burdens but as irreplaceable repositories of wisdom and experience. “The best of life is still yet to be seen,” he quoted, conveying a moving message of hope for those who feel forgotten or isolated in their later years. Bishop Vijaykumar invited society to embrace ageing as a sacred opportunity for ministry, encouraging all to become witnesses of hope, faith, and charity.
Citing ancient Indian scriptures, he recited: “Maatru Devo Bhava, Pitru Devo Bhava, Aacharya Devo Bhava, Atithi Devo Bhava,” which translates to recognising mothers, fathers, teachers, and guests as divine figures—an expression of the profound respect accorded to elders in Indian tradition.
He also explained the four stages of human life in Hindu philosophy while observing how modern individualism and the shift from extended to nuclear family systems have increasingly marginalised the elderly. “In the past, the elderly served as vital connectors of tradition and wisdom, bridging generations. Today, however, many elderly individuals experience isolation and undervaluation,” he lamented.
His testimony deeply resonated with the participants as he warned of the widening gap between generations. “You cannot truly grow old if you don’t know how to live with an elder,” he said, reminding that a society which neglects its elders risks losing its heritage and identity.
Concluding his address, Bishop Vijaykumar recalled the exhortation of Pope Leo XIV, who emphasised the Church’s collective duty to care for the elderly. The bishop affirmed, “Christian hope always urges us to dare more, to think big, and not to settle for the status quo.”
As the conference continued, participants explored ways to strengthen global support systems for the elderly, reaffirming their indispensable role within families, communities, and the Church. The discussions marked a meaningful step towards restoring dignity and reverence for the elderly, grounding such efforts in both spiritual conviction and compassionate action.
By Fr. Kampan Chinnam
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