National appeal for retired Religious set for Dec. 9-10

November 8, 2023

To:  Clergy, Religious and Laity of the Archdiocese

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

Please be advised of the Dec. 9-10, 2023, collection for the Retirement Fund for Religious. This annual appeal assists nearly 25,000 elderly sisters, brothers and religious order priests nationwide.

I am grateful for the significant influence that women and men religious, both past and present, have had on my own spiritual journey. I deeply appreciate their invaluable contributions to our archdiocese and the wider community. Perhaps you, too, have been touched by the kindness and guidance of an older woman or man religious who made a positive difference in your life.

We are called to recognize that many of our senior vowed religious have dedicated their lives to service, usually receiving little pay in return. Consequently, their religious communities face a shortage of retirement savings. Compounding this challenge are rising health-care costs and decreased income. Religious communities find it increasingly difficult to meet the day-to-day needs of aging members, including their medical expenses, nursing assistance and other necessities.

Your generous donations to the Retirement Fund for Religious provide vital financial support, enabling religious communities to care for their aging members.

I know you are frequently asked to support many worthy causes. I invite you to contribute whatever you can toward this year’s collection. In addition to your financial gift, please keep all our women and men religious in your prayers.

Wishing you God’s blessings and with the assurance of my prayers, I am,

Sincerely in Christ,

Most Reverend Gregory M. Aymond
Archbishop of New Orleans