Priests in retirement
Can you think of another group of people who stay active into their 90s, doing what they have been doing since they were in their 20s – and enjoying it still? Our retired priests continue to celebrate Mass and undertake other sacramental ministry, serving the Church until they are forced by poor health to slow down. And even then, they continue to offer their prayers for the many people they have served in this Archdiocese, and people in need around the world.
There are now 77 retired priests of the Archdiocese of San Francisco. 20 men live in assisted care in San Francisco, Marin and San Mateo counties. The remaining 57 live in parish rectories, or independently in their own homes, or with family members who assist with their care. Almost all stay active to the degree they can. Many of these men cook, clean and take care of their personal needs themselves, without outside help.
Our retired priests are regularly asked to celebrate Mass, perform baptisms, witness marriages, hold funeral services, mentor younger priests, and hear confessions. Many of them celebrate important dates during their retirement years, reaching a 60th anniversary of ordination and beyond.
These priests often gather together to enjoy each other’s company, and to provide fraternal support to each other in retirement. They remain in close contact with nearby parishes, and with parishioners they have known for many years. Their years of experience in ministry provide a rich resource for our younger priests, who have developed lasting friendships with the retired men, and who often come to them for spiritual direction. Archbishop George H. Niederauer, Auxiliary Bishop Bill Justice, and retired Bishop Ignatius Wang visit as often as their schedules allow, enjoying the opportunity to listen and learn from each of these men, and the opportunity to converse with them about their shared experiences.
These are the exemplary priests who have served you and thousands of others over the decades. Once a year the special collection for the Priests’ Retirement Fund is held at all of the parishes of the Archdiocese of San Francisco. This year, please consider a generous gift to assist these men who still serve you. And please keep them in your prayers, knowing that you can count on their ongoing prayers for you and your intentions.
Michael O’Leary is director of the Office of Development, Archdiocese of San Francisco.
By Michael O’Leary
From Sept. 18, 2009 issue of Catholic San Francisco.
