Celebrating Older Persons Sunday 2025
2025 is the fourth year the Uniting Church will mark an annual occasion to celebrate and reflect on the human rights and contributions of older people
October 1, 2025
Uniting Church communities across Australia are invited to mark the fourth annual Older Persons Sunday during October.
Established by the Uniting Church Assembly in 2022, Older Persons Sunday is a time to celebrate the contributions and human rights of older people, confront ageism, and consider how we can build communities that honour dignity and nurture hope across all generations.
While the suggested date to observe the day is the first Sunday in October – closely aligned with the United Nations’ International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) – congregations are encouraged to choose any Sunday in October, or another suitable date that works best for their context.
“In many cultures, including my own Tongan heritage, elders are seen as ‘pillars of wisdom’ ... They carry stories of sacrifice, perseverance, and faith that shape our lives today.”
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Produced by the Assembly in 2024, a comprehensive and flexible worship resource is available for use. It includes a full service outline, intergenerational activities, suggested scripture readings, music, prayers and reflections.
“In many cultures, including my own Tongan heritage, elders are seen as ‘pillars of wisdom,’” says Uniting Church President Rev Charissa Suli. “From a young age, we’re taught to honour and learn from our grandparents and elders. They carry stories of sacrifice, perseverance and faith that continue to shape us.”
“In the Uniting Church, we believe in the inherent dignity of every person. That belief guides how we care for our older members.”
Older Persons Sunday offers churches a meaningful way to recognise and celebrate the invaluable roles older people play – as individuals, family members, community leaders and advocates for justice. It also aligns with broader efforts to reform attitudes and systems that marginalise older people.
The United Nations created the International Day of Older Persons in 1990 to spotlight the impact of ageism and promote respect and dignity for older adults worldwide. The 2025 theme highlights the essential role of older people in building resilient, inclusive societies through their lived experience in health, finance, community life and human rights.
Congregations may choose to dedicate an entire service to the occasion or incorporate elements such as themed prayers, songs or personal reflections.
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