“Blessed are those who have not lost hope”
In a society grappling with rapid change, the words of Sirach 14:2, “Blessed are those who have not lost hope,” echo with piercing relevance. Being this year’s global theme for the World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly 2025, it served as both a spiritual compass and a moral call to action. The Ethel Foundation for the Aged (EFA) responded not with words alone, but with deeds that gave flesh to Scripture.
On 26th July 2025, more than 550 older persons, community members, caregivers, church leaders, partners, and youth gathered at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church in Kinungi, Nakuru Diocese, united in a day of love, affirmation, and deep intergenerational solidarity.
The celebration began with a powerful Eucharistic Mass, presided over by His Excellency the Apostolic Nuncio to Kenya, Archbishop Hubertus van Megen, assisted by Rev. Fr. Cornel Omondi, C.Ss.R., Rev Fr. Jude, Rev. Fr. Pius, C.Ss.R., and Rev. Fr. Isaac, C.Ss.R. In his homily, the Apostolic Nuncio highlighted the divine cry in Sirach 14:2: “Blessed are those who have not lost hope,” echoing the deep desire of older persons to be remembered, respected, and protected. He called upon society to guard against spiritual and social abandonment, reminding all that the presence of the elderly is not a burden, but a blessing.
EFA’s response to the 2025 theme was expressed through meaningful acts of compassion. Older people received professional grooming, nourishing meals, and participated in joyful cultural performances that fostered dignity and connection. The distribution of food hampers, clothing, and warm essentials served as a tangible reminder that they are cherished, not forsaken.
The celebration also highlighted EFA’s ambitious Strategic Plan (2024–2030), which aims to reach over 350,000 older persons with services in health, nutrition, care, protection, and advocacy. This plan was anchored in the understanding that not to cast off the elderly means building long-term systems of inclusion and dignity.
Rev. Fr. Cornel Omondi, C.Ss.R, being the C.E.O. passionately shared the mission of EFA in upholding the value of life at every stage, saying: “Each wrinkle holds a sacred testimony. We must not cast them off but lift them up.” He also reminded attendees, “If we are to live the Gospel, then let our systems, our budgets, and our voices reflect the worth of our elders—not just on this day, but every day.”
This day of grace was made possible through the generous support of partners who share the vision of a just and compassionate society. Our deepest appreciation goes to all. Together, they affirmed that no older person should ever walk alone.
As sunset, on the hills of Kinungi, a collective prayer rose: “Blessed are those who have not lost hope.” And through the joyful tears, shared meals, gentle embraces, and sacred songs, a new promise was born—that our elders will never be cast off. Not while communities like this still remember. Not while hearts still care.
📧 For support, collaboration, or to learn more about the work:
info@ethelfoundation.or.ke
🌐 www.ethelfoundation.or.ke
To stay updated follow us on…
