In his welcoming speech, His Excellency László Böcskei, Diocesan Bishop, reminded everyone of the importance of recognizing and appreciating the divine beauty that each person carries within them from birth to old age.
In his reflective meditation, Roman Catholic priest Márton Kiss referenced the words of Viktor Frankl, an Austrian psychologist and survivor of multiple concentration camps, addressed to his son: "Many survived famine, but not hopelessness." With this, he emphasized the importance of spirituality and one’s relationship with God.
Reformed pastor József Levente Ghitea-Szabó engaged the large gathering with biblical passages and personal examples from his own family life, reminding everyone of the value of the wisdom and perseverance of the elderly, which have guided them through life.
A panel discussion was led by Zsóka Kondor with the city’s honorary citizen, Mrs. Miorița Săteanu. Their conversation highlighted a series of experiences that shaped her character and enriched her life during a long and eventful journey—values accumulated by every person, to be generously shared in old age, supporting others.
Social worker Ildikó Szántó conveyed a message of appreciation to the elderly on behalf of state institutions, expressing gratitude for the wisdom and love they continue to pass on.
The gathering concluded with two musical performances that brought together different generations. The Margaréta Folk Song and Choir performed a medley of songs from the Bihar region and popular hits from their generation, including the "Retirees' Hymn." Afterward, class 8.B of the Saint Ladislaus Theological High School performed a poetic-musical piece, prepared by teachers Ramóna Benedek and Klementina Harácsek.
The event, moderated by Benita Perei, was organized by the Pastoral Office of the Roman Catholic Bishopric of Oradea, in collaboration with the Granny Project of the Oradea CE Association and Caritas Catolica of Oradea.
