Stories & News
Meet some of the women and men who benefit from the Retirement Fund for Religious.
Brother Joe Rogenski, OFM, 76
“Donors to the Retirement Fund for Religious are the heart and soul of its mission, and their generosity is a living testament to compassion in action. Each gift, large or small, expresses deep respect and care for our elderly religious, honoring their lifetime of service and ensuring their needs are met with dignity,” reflects Brother Joe Rogenski, 75, a member of the Order of Friars Minor in St. Louis, Missouri.
Sister Mary Fidelis Lane, SMP, 88
“Donors to the Retirement Fund for Religious play a vital role in our mission. They become prayer missionaries and partners, helping us bring souls to Christ. Their financial support allows us to reach out to those on the street who are most in need. Both prayer and financial aid are essential to continue this holy work, and together, we can make a real difference in the lives of so many,” says Sr. Mary Fidelis Lane, 88, a member of Daughters of Our Mother of Peace in High Ridge, Missouri.
Father John Hansen, SMP, 72
“Religious individuals dedicate their entire lives to serving others and fulfilling their call to God and the Church. Even in retirement, they remain steadfast in their mission, continuously engaged in prayer and service. For them, retirement does not mean rest but rather a continued commitment to supporting others and living their faith. It’s essential that we recognize and support this dedication, ensuring they have what they need to continue their holy work,” reflects Father John Hansen, 72, a member of The Sons of Our Mother of Peace in High Ridge, Missouri.
Father Maury Smith, OFM, 87
“Donations are needed to have the ordinary kinds of things many senior religious need in terms of food, clothing, and housing. We owe it to them to take care of them. Maybe even more than we have in the past… they need it,” says Father Maury Smith, 87, a member of the Order of Friars Minor in St. Louis, Missouri.
Sister M. Stephanie Belgeri, FSGM, 72
“Thanks to your generosity, we can provide the very best care to the sisters in our community,” says Sister M. Stephanie Belgeri, 72, a member of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George in Alton, Illinois. “Your contributions enabled upgrades, including building an infirmary, ensuring our sisters’ well-being.”
Sister Olivia Bellegante, OSF, 92
“Thank you very much for your donations, always,” says Sister Olivia Bellegante, 92, a member of the Franciscan Sisters of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in St. Louis, Missouri. “Since most of the sisters are getting older and not working anymore, it is difficult. It is a help to them; without it, I’m not sure that they could survive.”
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.