Copyright independent
ACP spokesman Father Roy Donovan told the Irish Independent that if every priest in Ireland retired at 75, as they are allowed, “every diocese in the country would collapse completely”. Due to the continuing decline in priest numbers, many older clergy are being asked to take on increased responsibilities, including taking charge of additional parishes. These priests, some in their 70s or 80s, continue to serve “out of deep commitment and a profound sense of duty”. But the group has been contacted by some elderly priests, Fr Donovan said, who have reported being “almost forcibly changed” from the parish where they have served for many years. “When you are over 75, your house is your home and to have to move out and go somewhere else is a trauma,” he said. The ACP said any expectation for elderly clergy to move parishes or tackle additional work must take into account the priest’s health and well-being. The bishop understands your house is your home. One shouldn’t be taken out of one’s home The issue is the focus of the ACP’s AGM in Athlone today, when members will be addressed by Fr Martin Whelan, a canon lawyer, and Fr Martin Delaney, who will talk about the need for the church to adopt a person-centred approach to elderly priests. According to Fr Donovan, the parish priest of Caherconlish and Inch St Lawrence in Limerick, part of the problem is a lack of a charter on elderly priests’ rights. “Obviously, it is a very difficult task at the moment for a bishop to provide pastoral care and sacramental care in every parish in his diocese because of the number of priests is declining,” he said. “But care of the priest should be the number one priority. The first point of call should be to consult with the priest and to listen to him.” Fr Donovan said elderly clergy should have the option to decline a request to move parish without fear of losing their income or housing. In the diocese of Cashel and Emly, where he serves, Fr Donovan said the bishop has listened and understands elderly priests’ concerns. “He now understands that your house is your home. One shouldn’t be taken out of one’s home unless one wants to leave,” he said.
