Much of what Pope Francis said to the European Parliament (News, 29 November) was lost in his description of Europe as wearied and ageing, a “grandmother” no longer fertile and vibrant. This was an unfortunate metaphor. Grandmothers are largely holding society together. We provide free care for our grandchildren and support young families. Most of us are still working as the retirement age is steadily raised. We keep extended families together, pass on the faith and without us most