Meet some of the women and men who benefit from the Retirement Fund for Religious collection, and read news from the National Religious Retirement Office.
“Elderly is dynamic”: Sister Aida's lifetime of faith, language, and service
“Elderly is dynamic,” says Sister Aida Sansor. And she means it. The 87-year-old member of the Missionary Guadalupanas of the Holy Spirit shares, “Growing older has not been a negative experience for me. It has been one of the richest seasons of my life. I am still learning, still growing, and still discovering new meaning in this time.”
In February, the National Religious Retirement Office team traveled to Los Angeles to photograph members of religious communities for the upcoming 2026 Retirement Fund for Religious collection, which will be held in most (arch)dioceses on December 12–13.
Read More about Capturing Joy: Senior Religious Photographed for the 2026 Campaign »
“Your support through the Retirement Fund doesn’t just sustain us; it honors our life’s work and allows even our smallest communities to continue serving with dignity and grace. We are so deeply grateful,” reflects Sister Paul Mary of Jesus, LSP, whose vibrant ministry with the Little Sisters of the Poor has been defined by unwavering commitment and love.
“Gratitude is a religious expression. It is a thanksgiving to God for the service of so many religious individuals who have dedicated their lives not for profit, but for the benefit of others. We are most grateful to the donors who give,” shares Father Albert Judy, OP, who recently celebrated his 90th birthday and more than six decades of Dominican life.
“We are so grateful for our benefactors, whose prayers and support sustain our life of service. I’m eternally grateful for my vocation. My advice is to come in with your heart completely open and expect wonderful things to happen,” notes Brother Martin Schmitz, 95, a member of the Conventual Franciscans of St. Bonaventure Province.
