Senior citizens from across the diocese came to Columbus St. Catharine of Siena Church on June 12 for the annual Senior Citizens Day, a celebration that focuses on the dignity and the unique role that they have in society.
The event was hosted by the Office of Pro-Life Ministries, which is a department of the Vicariate for Social Doctrine. This is the first time that the office has hosted the event.
Angelita Canlas, administrative assistant to the Vicariate for Social Doctrine, was one of the main organizers of the event.
“It is important that our office emphasizes the importance and dignity of each human person, regardless of their age,” said Mary Kristof, associate director of the Office of Pro-Life Ministries. “It is a blessing to celebrate senior citizens.”
More than 130 senior citizens attended the event, with some coming from as far away as Portsmouth.
Bishop Earl Fernandes celebrated Mass with Fathers Bob Penhallurick and Frank Brown from St. Catharine of Siena Church. Father Penhallurick is also the director of the Office of Pro-Life Ministries. Deacon Dave Bezusko of the Office of Catholic Charities served as the deacon at Mass.
Bishop Fernandes highlighted the importance of wisdom. The Gospel reading of the day came from Matthew’s Gospel, where Christ begins the Sermon on the Mount.
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus communicates divine wisdom that is greater than anything taught by Moses or the Pharisees. Bishop Fernandes said that each person who has received the Sacrament of Confirmation receives wisdom, which is a gift of the Holy Spirit that helps Christians live well.
The bishop continued to explain that seniors play such an important role in society because they have grown in wisdom and can share that wisdom with future generations. He said seniors should not be shut away but appreciated for the virtues that they have cultivated throughout their lives.
After Mass, seniors gathered in the parish hall for lunch, which was catered by Scotty’s Café, a local restaurant.
Those who attended were grateful for the time to spend together and with Bishop Fernandes. It was also a good time for seniors to catch up with those who come to the event year after year as well as to meet new friends.
Catholic Social Services also hosted several tables of seniors who participate in its programming.
For more information on the annual Senior Citizens Day, please email prolife@columbuscatholic.org.