One of the most promising groups I have encountered in a long time is a new group in Madison that ministers to retired priests. In so doing they have discovered a surprising number of retired priests with unmet needs. They try to help meet some of these needs.

Guided by the diocese, this group of lay persons wanted to proceed slowly and wisely. They were especially concerned about confidentiality, proper training and availability. They wanted a small but committed group of members who were free to serve retired priests in need.

The group has already been a blessing to me. Two free meals per week, the offer of a haircut, computer help, possible cleaning, legal help, prayer and much more. Most if not all members have been involved in Eucharistic Adoration during which they pray for priests, seminarians and religious vocations.

Other retired priests have received free rides to doctors, social events, appointments and special functions. Members take turns accompanying a retired priest on a walk each day. Also occasionally they take him to Mass. They do much more than space allows.

I feel and I think retired priests need both bread and flowers. The Bless Our Priests Endowment Fund certainly helps to provide bread. But retired priests also need food for their souls symbolized by flowers. Some retired priests may have family or friends who help to provide this spiritual food. For others who do not, the retired priest’s visiting group can be helpful.

At a recent Serra meeting if I heard the Bishop correctly, he said that retired priests can inspire seminarians. An interesting observation considering that the Pope is at least eight years older than me and inspires thousands. You Brother Knights who allow me to write this column, help outs, the Sacrament of Reconciliation, affirmation and the like also help to feed this retired priest’s soul. In addition, you have helped me with moving, anniversaries parish help, support and more.

I especially like this ministry to retired priests because it is an attempt to make sure that retired priests do not slip through the cracks. It witnesses to the fact that the Church is not be part of our "throw away" society.

As Knights we support and pray for vocations to the priesthood and Religious life. We also support active priests and retired priests and Religious. Let us pray for the Retired Priest’s Help Group and continue to support priests in whatever way we can. The benefits are now and forever!

Fr. Don Lange

To the editor:
Fr. William Bausch wrote about a priest that by age 20 lost every person whom he ever loved or might have loved. Death robbed him of his mother, father, brother, and sister. I am sure that he offered his suffering to God. Then his superior informed him that his appointment as a bishop was pending. Immediately he sped to an Ursuline convent to pray for guidance. Eight hours later, the priest was still praying.

The priest became Pope John Paul II. One of many things that impressed me about Pope John Paul is that he served as pope even when his health deteriorated.

During the collection for retired priests, I thought of some retired priests who like Pope John Paul, serve and have served the church in wheelchairs or supported by canes. Recently parishioners contributed to the priests retirement fund as a way to thank retired priests for sacrifices they make or have made.

Retired priests also appreciate prayers and support. Recently I discovered individuals and a group, who with the retired priest's permission, helps to meet their seen, unseen, and unmet needs. Since I have enjoyed their kindness, I join the priests they have served in thanking these generous persons.

Fr. Don Lange, Madison, retired priest, Diocese of Madison                     
The Catholic Herald,  January 11, 2007 Edition