Honoring Our Grandparents Day

Celebrate Grandparents Day, September 7, 2025

- Reverend Dr. Rocky Brown, 3rd

"I thank God, whom I serve, as my ancestors did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy. I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also." 2 Timothy 1:3-5 NIV "Children's children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children." Proverbs 17:6 NIV

This day is so special to me because, like many of you, I was raised by my grandparents. National Grandparents Day falls each year on the first Sunday after Labor Day. It's not a holiday invented to sell cards and flowers. It was initiated at the grassroots level by West Virginian Marian Lucille Herndon McQuade, with the support of her husband, Joseph L. McQuade, behind the scenes. They had 15 children, 43 grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. After being married for over 60 years, Mr. McQuade passed away in 2001. Mrs. McQuade passed away in 2008.

Mrs. McQuade wanted Grandparents Day to be a family day. She envisioned families enjoying small, private gatherings, a family reunion, or participating in community events. On a societal level, National Grandparents Day provides an opportunity to publicly acknowledge the significance and importance of grandparents and their vital role in families. It is also a day of giving--giving of self, sharing hopes, dreams, and values, and setting an example and advocating for future generations.