Stories & News
Meet some of the women and men who benefit from the Retirement Fund for Religious.
Brother Ronald Specht, OSST, 80
“It’s this kindness,” Brother Ronald of the Order of the Most Holy Trinity and the Captives (The Trinitarians) says, “that keeps us old birds chirping and fluttering, far from just waiting for the undertaker.”
Sister Teresa Korycka, SSMI, 80
“Sincere thanks to the donors of the Retirement Fund for Religious. I hope we meet, if not in this world, then in the next,” says Sister Teresa, 80, of the Sisters, Servants of Mary Immaculate in Catonsville, MD.
Brother Charles Douglas, SSJ, 88
“Those serving in religious life receive minimal compensation because of their vow of poverty, so donors giving to the retirement fund show appreciation for their work and provide them with a sense of security in their old age. We are so grateful for all they have done for us,” emphasizes Brother Charles Douglas, SSJ, who has dedicated his life to religious service.
Sister Celeste Burgos, MHSH, 79
“Thank you for thinking about us! Your support acknowledges that we are the hands and feet of people, continuing the mission of Christ even in our retirement. Your generosity has been instrumental in helping others, and we are grateful for your recognition of our ongoing service. Together, we make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we touch. Thank you for being part of our journey,” shares Sister Celeste Burgos.
Father James Day, OSST, 77
“In the past, we who served in religious life traditionally received minimal compensation because of our vow of poverty. Therefore, when donors contribute to the retirement fund, it not only shows appreciation for our work as men and women religious but also provides us with a sense of security in our old age,” says Father James Day, 77, a member of the Trinitarians in Sykesville, Maryland.
Sister Brenda Cherry, OSP, 84
“I am truly, truly grateful for the assistance provided by donors. I am glad that someone thinks about the religious,” says Sister Brenda Cherry, 84, a member of the Oblate Sisters of Providence in Halethorpe, MD. “It is important to support our elderly sisters, brothers and religious order priests who have dedicated their lives to serving others.”
Baltimore Religious Communities Smile for the Camera: Retirement Fund for Religious Collection Captures Heartwarming Moments
The Retirement Fund for Religious (RFR) team recently photographed senior religious persons from various religious communities in the Archdiocese of Baltimore.
These sisters, brothers, and religious order priests have all benefited from the generous donations to the annual Retirement Fund for Religious collection.