Meet some of the women and men who benefit from the Retirement Fund for Religious collection.
“What you’re doing is letting us continue our ministry in praying for others, meeting others, and continuing our work as bringing the best of God to all. And we thank you for all you do, and you’re in our prayers,” reflects Father Terry Deffenbaugh, OSA, 78, a dedicated member of the Augustinian community whose ministry has been marked by faith, humor, and compassion.
“We are deeply grateful for the support of the Retirement Fund. For our small community of just 30 members, these contributions have lifted a tremendous burden and helped us plan for the future with dignity and care. The generosity of donors has been a gift to us—and we continue to feel its impact every day,” reflects Sister Barbara Mass, a founding member of the Sisters of the Living Word whose decades of service have centered on teaching, leadership, and spiritual formation.
“Your generosity is more than a gift—it’s a grace. Because of you, we are cared for in our later years with dignity and love. I thank God for you each day in my prayers,” reflects Sister Diane De Carli, MSCS, an 86-year-old member of the Missionary Sisters of St. Charles Borromeo (Scalabrinian) community in Melrose Park, Illinois.