To the Sentinel:
On behalf of men and women religious throughout the United States, I extend heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the annual appeal for the retirement fund for religious in 2007. Donations totaled $216,922, more than one percent more than was contributed in 2006.
We know this represents great sacrifice on the part of many in these difficult economic times, and we are deeply grateful.
The generosity helps to provide care for more than 37,500 religious in the United States who are past age 70, including more than 4,900 who need skilled nursing care.
These women and men pray daily for your intentions, asking God to bless you abundantly.
The funds from the 2007 appeal were distributed to religious institutes at the end of June, and I am confident that they will be received with profound gratitude for every donor.
Our annual report details the distribution of funds, and is available on our website. We invite you to visit www.retiredreligious.org.

Sr. Janice Bader
Executive Director, National Religious Retirement Office
Washington, D.C.