The Archdiocese of Cardiff is blessed by retired clergy who remain active in or around the parishes in which they have retired.
Many continue in ministry leading active lives – celebrating Mass, serving as chaplains, counselling people in need, supporting parish life, and praying for us all. Parish priests generally retire from the administrative burden of parish life at the age of 75, often having given 40-50 years of service to the community. This is well beyond the retirement age of most lay people. As they live independently, retired priests support themselves with the help of the Sick and Retired Clergy Fund.
The Fund ensures that priests enjoy a dignified retirement. It supports independent living providing them with a suitable home alongside other services. Above all, it makes certain that their social and health care needs are met. Our priests rely on what the Fund provides having devoted their lives to furthering the mission of the Church and bringing people closer to Christ.
Over the next 10 years just under half of all diocesan priests will reach retirement age. The cost of care will rise dramatically as a result. But with your help, we will keep the promise and show our gratitude.[1]
If you would like to support the Sick and Retired Clergy Fund you can donate at your parish where envelopes are provided. Alternatively, click the button below to give online.
You might even be considering leaving a gift to the diocese for the Sick and Retired Clergy Fund. If you are thinking about remembering the clergy of the Archdiocese in your Will. You can find information by clicking here.
My Dear People,
Pope Francis spoke recently of all those hardworking priests who tirelessly and generously give their lives to the service of God and his people. He compared them to incense “…which silently rises up to heaven…[it] goes straight to the heart of the Father”.
On behalf of all the people they serve, I give thanks for these stewards of God’s grace. Through the Annual Collection for the Welfare of Sick and Retired Priests, there is an opportunity to give thanks for the service they have offered over the years.
Archbishop George Stack
