We who have acquired and still retain the ability to navigate this physical world have a duty to protect the infirm elderly, as well as the unformed young, from bodily harm and dangers that could lead to their premature death. The ancient woman stroking her doll remains as human as she was as a charming toddler, as worthy of our care now that she is dying as she was when she had her life ahead of her. But we tend to forget that, especially when we see them in the groaning waystation to the grave.

"[A] paradigmatic example of our violent, anti-life throwaway culture — one pro-lifers and Catholics everywhere must now mobilize to resist."

The idea of old age as the last stage in the journey to God is a source of great hope

At his general audience Francis says that being old is no time for resting

Francis says it is 'easy to put our consciences to sleep' and not visit parents for months at a time

The Pope made the remark in a televised interview with five young Catholics from Belgium

The family is the original safety net. But, for many of us, it's just not there any more

Benedict XVI says he is 'an elderly man visiting his peers' during visit to a home run by the Sant'Egidio Community