For the last number of years, there are far more priests of retirement age than those who are being ordained. Given this fact, there is a very crucial need to help these retired priests. A great many of them are living in compromised financial situations due to rent increases, higher costs of food and medicine and in general, runaway inflation. No one could have predicted the devastating financial effects Covid has had on everyone, but it is especially serious for those who have already retired or are pondering retirement.
Yes it does, to a point, but it is not nearly enough. Funds are distributed into the diocesan priest’s pension plan, but most dioceses are unable to grant increases to current pensions. This makes it almost impossible for retired priests – already on a fixed income - to take care of their basic needs and necessities once rising prices and inflation are factored in.
No. The National Collection for Retired Religious does not benefit our diocesan priests. The funds for the National Collection for Retired Religious support priests, brothers and sisters of the various religious orders and communities throughout the United States.
Retired priests generally derive income from three sources: a priest’s Retirement Fund pension, Social Security payments, and personal savings. Unlike most employees who split FICA taxes with their employers, diocesan priests are considered self-employed by the IRS and must pay the entire 15.3% FICA tax from their own salaries.
Several reasons contribute to this. Many retired pastors do not feel comfortable continuing to reside in the rectory once a new pastor moves in. Additionally, aging priests may face mobility challenges, such as difficulty with stairs, which many rectories are not equipped to accommodate. The closure of many parishes also leads to the sale of rectory properties, making it impractical for retired priests to remain there.
The Foundation has helped priests with many problems concerning spiritual, emotional, and financial aid. With your continued support and prayers, we aim to enhance and expand our outreach initiatives.
No, the Vianney Foundation does not support cancel culture for individual priests or organizations. The priesthood is about Jesus Christ and His Church, and it should not promote division.
The process typically begins with completing the help form, which leads to initial contact with a foundation caseworker. Depending on the situation, the caseworker may ask the individual priest to first reach out to his local diocesan office of clergy. Once the priest receives a response from the diocesan office, the foundation can provide further assistance and explore additional support options.
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