By Fr Novelito (Novie) Lim
The Annual General Meeting of the Priests Retirement Foundation was held on 5 March in Tatura. Over the past year, the Foundation has experienced several significant changes.
We remembered with gratitude the late Monsignor Frank Marriott, who served the Foundation faithfully for many years as Chair and committee member. His dedication and commitment to the welfare of retired priests helped shape the Foundation into what it is today. We also remembered Fr John Ryan, who died in early 2025 after many years of faithful priestly ministry in our Diocese.
This year we also welcome several newly retired priests: Monsignor Peter Jeffrey, Fr Joe Taylor and Fr Denis Crameri. Fr Tony Hill will soon join them in retirement. We thank them sincerely for their many years of dedicated service in our parishes. Even in retirement, they continue to support the life and ministry of the Diocese.
Following the passing of Monsignor Frank, we welcome Fr Joe Taylor as a new member of the committee, appointed by our Diocesan Administrator, Fr Brian Boyle. Fr Joe brings many years of pastoral experience and a deep commitment to supporting the needs of clergy.
Financially, the Foundation remains stable, although rising living and medical costs continue to present challenges. The Priests Retirement Foundation, together with the Sick Priests Fund, continues to support both retired and active priests in need.
I extend sincere thanks to the members of the committee and the many people who assist the Foundation, including our Clergy Health and Wellbeing Coordinators and the staff of the Chancery. I also thank everyone in our parishes across the Diocese who generously contribute and donate to this Foundation.
Finally, I encourage everyone to continue supporting the Annual Appeal, especially during September, but also throughout the year. Your generosity helps ensure that our retired priests are cared for, and that future generations of clergy will also be supported.
Fr Novie is Chair of the Priests Retirement Foundation.