Isn’t there something so special about these warm summer weeks? With sunshine, chaotic family barbecues, and a little extra breathing room, summer invites us to slow down and joyfully connect with the people who matter most.
Lately, I’ve found myself reflecting on our roots. In the busyness of daily life, it’s easy to overlook the gentle, steady stream of faith that has been lovingly passed down to bring us right where we are today.
That’s why I’m so grateful the Church gives us the Feast of Saints Anne and Joachim each year on July 26th. Their story is a beautiful, simple roadmap to honor our grandparents. It is a proof that every family, including Jesus’s, has a story worth celebrating.
Who Were Anne and Joachim?
We actually learn about Mary’s parents through early Christian tradition, rather than the regular Gospels. According to those old stories, Anne and Joachim were deeply devout, faithful people who shared a massive heartbreak: they were childless for decades.
In the first-century Jewish culture, this brought quiet sorrow and even social shame. Still, Anne and Joachim kept turning to God with hope: fasting, praying, and trusting through all the ups and downs. And in God’s perfect timing, their prayers were answered with the gift of a little girl named Mary, who would become the Mother of our Savior.
Their legacy reminds us that families grow slowly, with love and faithfulness rippling out to bless generations we may never meet. Every small act of trust plants seeds of hope for the future.
What My Grandma Taught Me About Love
When I think of Saints Anne and Joachim, I can’t help but think of my own family story. My parents worked so hard: my dad juggling two jobs, my mom balancing work and home, so every summer, I spent nearly two months with my grandma.
Those golden summer days shaped me in ways I’m still grateful for today.
My grandma was my first teacher in homemaking, relationships, and faith. She made our time together to talk to me about marriage and family—especially when my own parents’ marriage was going through rough patches.
Through her gentle words and loving actions, she taught me that lasting love is something you nurture, especially when life gets tough. Even if things weren’t perfect at home, she helped me see the beauty of a faithful marriage lived out with hope.
I’m so grateful for those summers. My own marriage is thriving today, and I know her steady example helped plant those seeds of everyday holiness.
Sadly, I never got to see her own marriage in action, since my grandfather passed away when he was just 45. She raised her children on her own, carrying so much on her shoulders with a resilient and beautiful faith that still inspires me.
While not a direct quote, I believe Padre Pio’s teachings perfectly encapsulate the story I shared:
“The greatest gift we can offer our children is the example of a life lived in faith and love, guided by the wisdom of those who have gone before.”
Grandparents really are the unsung heroes in our families. They hold our stories, anchor our faith, and quietly support us with a steady, loving presence.
5 Simple Ways to Honor Our Grandparents This Summer
If you’d like to bring a little bit of this beautiful feast day into your home, here are five simple, family-friendly ways to celebrate together (no perfection required!).
- 1. Gather for a Backyard Rosary: On a sunny evening, head outside and, after a tasty barbecue, pray a family Rosary together. Invite St. Anne and Joachim to intercede for your family.
- 2. Make a Special Visit: Take time to visit your grandparents or elderly relatives. Bring a little treat or a little bouquet, but most of all, share your time. If you have kids, encourage them to ask about family memories or favorite recipes from the past.
- 3. Offer a Holy Mass: One of the most powerful things we can do is to request a Mass intention at our local parish for our grandparents. Offer it for their health and happiness if they’re living, or for the repose of their souls if they have passed away.
- 4. Plant a Living Symbol: Plant a little flower patch or a vegetable garden together. Watching things grow is a wonderful reminder for kids (and grown-ups!) of the slow, steady patience it takes to nurture both family and faith.
- 5. Create a Family Scrapbook: Gather old photos and sit down with your kids to make a simple family tree. Jot down stories about the faith and sacrifices of those who came before, so these beautiful memories can be celebrated and shared.
A Legacy Meant to Be Passed On
As St. Pope John Paul II beautifully wrote:
“Old age is a time for reflection, for giving thanks, and for passing on the wisdom of faith to the next generation.”
We are each a living link in the beautiful, long chain of faith. As you soak up the sunshine and gather with family this summer, take a quiet moment to thank God for your roots.
Let St. Anne and Joachim inspire you to build a home where faith and love grow strong, one simple tradition at a time.
May their intercession bless your family today and always. Happy Feast Day!
With love and prayers,
Michalina
💬 Let’s Chat!
Does your country have a special day for celebrating grandparents? How do you honor your elders at home? I’d love to hear your stories and ideas—let’s inspire each other in the comments below!