USCCB announces yearly collection to benefit retired priests, religious

CV NEWS FEED // A collection in December will benefit elderly and retired religious, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) announced on November 4.

The USCCB’s website stated that the National Religious Retirement Office (NRRO), a collection that will take place in the United States from December 7-8, provides essential financial aid to more than 20,000 elderly religious and priests.

“As they age, many religious communities face a significant gap between the cost of care and available resources,” the website reads. “The rising cost of healthcare, coupled with the fact that religious past the age of 70 outnumber those younger than 70 by nearly three to one, has exacerbated this challenge.”

The website continued that each year, it costs more than $1 billion to support senior men and women religious. Last year, the NRRO only raised $29.3 million.

“The selfless dedication of these religious has enriched countless lives,” stated NRRO Director John Knutsen. 

“Your generosity ensures they receive the care they deserve in their retirement,” he said. “Supporting our aging religious is a shared responsibility and an opportunity to express our gratitude for their lifelong service.”

He continued, “By contributing to the Retirement Fund for Religious collection we ensure they receive the care and dignity they deserve while also upholding the values of compassion and solidarity within our faith community.”