In the Catholic Church, Grandparents Day is celebrated as the Feast of Saints Joachim and Anne, the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the grandparents of Jesus. Observed on July 26 each year, this feast honours grandparents as the guiding lights, storytellers, and wisdom-keepers of every family. In countries such as Portugal and Brazil, it is a day dedicated to recognising the vital role that grandparents play in families and society.
Though Saints Joachim and Anne are not mentioned in the Bible, much of what we know about them comes from early Christian tradition. Their story is preserved in apocryphal texts such as the Protevangelium of James (2nd century) and the Evangelium de Nativitate Mariae (3rd century). According to these sources, Anne (in Hewbrew Hannah means favor/grace) was born in Bethlehem and married Joachim (which means Yahweh, prepares), a devout and wealthy man from Nazareth. Despite their piety, the couple remained childless—a state often viewed in ancient Jewish culture as a sign of divine disfavor. This burden brought them sorrow.
One day, while Joachim went to the Temple to offer sacrifices, he was publicly mocked for his childlessness. Grieved, he withdrew into the countryside to fast and pray. Anne, also heartbroken by their situation and her husband’s absence, prayed deeply and vowed that if blessed with a child, she would dedicate it entirely to God.
Their prayers were answered when an angel appeared to both of them, announcing that Anne would conceive a special child. Reunited with joy, they welcomed the birth of their daughter, Mary. When Mary turned three, they fulfilled their vow by taking her to the Temple in Jerusalem, where she was raised in God’s service—preparing her for her extraordinary role as the Mother of Jesus.
While their story is not part of the canonical Gospels, the Catholic Church venerates Saints Joachim and Anne for their deep faith, devotion, and for raising Mary, the most blessed among women. Their deep faith, devotion, and parenting profoundly shaped Mary’s character, which in turn influenced the life of Jesus. Though their role in salvation history was quiet, it remains essential and continues to inspire generations.
Their legacy endures in the loving and nurturing role grandparents play today. In recognition of this, Pope Francis instituted the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, celebrated on the fourth Sunday of July—close to their feast day.
Why grandparents matter
Grandparents offer a unique and irreplaceable presence in our lives. Their love is unconditional, their patience profound, and their stories full of tradition, wisdom, and warmth. While parents raise us, grandparents help shape our values and enrich our lives with their lived experiences.
Grandparents Day is a chance to express gratitude—to say "thank you" for the love, sacrifices, and guidance they give. Families may mark the day by sharing a meal, making cards, spending time together, or simply listening to the memories only grandparents can share. In our fast-paced world, where generations sometimes grow distant, this day reminds us to pause and reconnect with those who laid the foundations of our lives.
St Anne’s Feast in Goa:
A cultural celebration
In Goa, the Feast of St. Anne, celebrated on July 26, takes on a vibrant and culturally rich character. Various villages such as Olaulim (May 7), Agonda (first Sunday of May), and Parra and Ponda (on July 26 or the nearest Sunday thereafter) also celebrate the feast, each with its unique flavour. However, none compares to the lively celebration in Talaulim, famous for its Touxeanchem Fest — the Cucumber Feast.
It was through the Portuguese Jesuits, under colonial patronage, that Christianity—particularly devotion to St. Anne—was introduced and firmly established in Santana village, Talaulim. Fr. Afonso Cominace spread the faith among the locals, erected a small chapel, and celebrated the first mass. Later, St. Anne’s Church was founded in 1557 and rebuilt in 1695. The church is an architectural blend of Portuguese Baroque and Indian styles. St. Anne, the patroness of mothers and women in labor, holds a deep place in the hearts of Goans. Her feast draws people of all faiths, reflecting Goa’s spirit of communal harmony.
But why cucumbers? It’s more than just a quirky tradition— it dates back to the Portuguese era, rooted in the belief that St. Anne grants wishes, particularly those related to finding a spouse or having children. The faithful come with heartfelt prayers and symbolic offerings. Bachelors pray: “Senhora, tomai colher, dai me mulher” (Lady, take this spoon, give me a wife). Single women chant: “Senhora, tomai urido, dai me marido” (Lady, take this urid dhal, give me a husband). Newlyweds offer cucumbers with: “Senhora, tomai pepino, dai me menino” (Lady, accept this cucumber, give me a baby boy). Couples seeking a daughter bring bangles and pray: “Senhora, tomai manilha, dai filha” (Lady, accept this bangle and grant us a daughter).
Legend has it that St. Anne’s batting average for wish-granting is quite impressive, which is why the church overflows with hopeful hearts and cucumber-bearing devotees each year. Whether you're celebrating the faith of Saints Joachim and Anne or simply saying a warm “thank you” to your grandparents, July 26 is a day to recognise love that spans generations — love that nurtures, uplifts, and endures.
