Father Ángel García, founder and president of Mensajeros de la Paz, began promoting Grandparents’ Day in 1998, inspired by the Christian feast of Saints Joachim and Anne, grandparents of Jesus. He thought July 26th was the perfect date to pay tribute to those who are so often the silent heart of families.

The purpose was clear from the beginning:

• To thank grandparents, and older adults in general, for their unconditional love, wisdom, and dedication.
• To combat unwanted loneliness, which affects thousands of older adults in Spain.
• To vindicate their essential role in parenting, providing financial and emotional support, and transmitting values.
• To foster intergenerational solidarity, remembering that grandparents are not just a part of the past, but an active present and shared future.

In his messages, Father Ángel has said things like: “Grandparents are important in our society and should always be loved. It’s not enough to remember them once a year; we must care for them every day.”

Since then, every July 26th is celebrated with symbolic events, with one central theme in different parts of Spain: masses, proclamations, music, and recognitions such as the “Grandfathers and Grandmothers of Honor” diplomas. But beyond the celebration, the day seeks to touch hearts and raise awareness.