Priests’ Retirement Fund – What does retirement look like?

A priest will normally retire from full-time parish ministry when he reaches 75 years of age after serving for 40 to 50 years on average. However, almost a third continue to work in some form of ministry after they officially retire by celebrating Mass, serving as chaplains, supporting parish life, and helping fellow clergy.

When a priest retires from his parish ministry, the Bishop’s Office for the Support of Clergy will discuss his future needs with him. Some priests may not require any financial help, thanks to independent means or family support, but many will need at least some level of assistance. Whatever his situation, the Diocese will ensure he has sufficient financial resources to afford the necessities of life, live in properly heated and maintained accommodation, and can pay for some recreation and travel.

Depending on the priest’s situation, the Diocese may provide somewhere for him to live, in an area that’s appropriate to his needs within the diocese. While the diocese will provide basic furniture and equipment, and cover the costs of external and internal maintenance, the priest will be expected to meet all the running costs, including utility bills and Council Tax.

In time, sheltered accommodation may become more suitable, and a contribution to residential or nursing home facilities can be provided for within a financial agreement arranged with the diocese, again in accordance with the priest’s own means.