In Lenten message, pope says families must help the elderly

Published: 2005-01-27

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Advances in science and medicine have allowed people to live longer, but families and governments must help the elderly live those added years in a full and dignified manner, said Pope John Paul II. The 84-year-old pontiff dedicated his 2005 Lenten message to the gift of longevity. The pope told people to always "remain open and welcoming" toward older people, especially those who are weak, sick or suffering. "The care of the elderly, above all when they pass through difficult moments, must be of great concern to all the faithful," especially in Western countries where older people often struggle to find a place in society, the pope said in his written message, released Jan. 27 at the Vatican. "Human life is a precious gift to be loved and defended in each of its stages," he said. The commandment "You shall not kill" applies to life's very beginning at conception and to its natural end, said the message.

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