You can make a difference in the lives of aging religious

During the weekend of Dec. 6-7, parishes across the Archdiocese of Newark will take part in the annual Retirement Fund for Religious collection. This offering honors and supports members of the religious communities who have offered their lives to serve God and His people.

Last year, Catholics across the archdiocese contributed more than $333,000 to the collection, mostly through their home parishes.

“The generosity of U.S. Catholics continues to make a profound difference in the lives of aging religious,” said John Knutsen, director of the National Religious Retirement Office (NRRO). “This year, we invite all Catholics to help provide the care and dignity these women and men of faith so richly deserve.”

Increasing financial strain

Rising health-care costs and the absence of traditional retirement plans have placed significant financial strain on many religious communities. In 2024, the average annual cost of care was approximately $56,600 per person, with skilled nursing care averaging $96,000.

The Retirement Fund for Religious helps address this need, supporting more than 21,000 religious over the age of 70. The annual collection has raised more than $1 billion since its establishment in 1988, with nearly $900 million distributed for direct care and over $103.7 million allocated to retirement planning projects.

The 2024 appeal raised more than $28.1 million, providing financial assistance for the retirement needs of 266 U.S. religious communities. The collection also supports educational programs that empower religious communities to plan for their long-term needs.

Every contribution helps

The NRRO coordinates the annual national appeal for the Retirement Fund for Religious and distributes financial assistance for retirement needs to eligible religious institutes. The NRRO and the Retirement Fund for Religious are sponsored by the Conference of Major Superiors of Men, Council of Major Superiors of Women Religious, Leadership Conference of Women Religious, and United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.

This week, faithful are especially encouraged to reflect on the lifelong contributions of religious men and women and to consider making a sacrificial gift to the Retirement Fund for Religious. Every contribution, large or small, helps ensure these devoted servants receive the care they deserve.

For more information or to donate, visit retiredreligious.org.