Appeal for the Retirement Fund for Religious
Archbishop Daniel M. Buechlein
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
This summer, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops voted to extend the annual appeal for the Retirement Fund for Religious. The growing number of elderly religious and the rising costs of health care are well documented and have created a mounting and quantifiable need for help. The needs are often severe, particularly at some contemplative institutes and at many institutes that primarily served in educational ministries.
Almost without exception, our elderly and infirm religious offer moving examples of aging with grace, dignity and faith. They are at the forefront of an emerging ministry—one that models for the larger society those characteristics, behaviors, and spirituality that provide genuine enrichment and encouragement to others who are aging.
Donors often speak of this campaign as a timely response to religious who have ministered throughout their lives to others. Even so, the giving that distinguishes this appeal represents just slightly more than one dollar per adult Catholic in the United States.
Please support the annual appeal that will be conducted in the Archdiocese of Indianapolis this year on December 9-10. Acknowledge the treasure that our elderly religious represent and respond generously to their needs.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Rev. Daniel M. Buechlein, O.S.B.
Archbishop of Indianapolis