The Shepherds’ Trust
The Shepherds’ Trust supports the needs of the retired diocesan clergy of the Archdiocese of Toronto who have served our family of faith, bringing us the sacraments and enriching our parishes, homes, schools, hospitals and countless other gatherings through their ministry.
The Trust was started by lay people who recognized the needs of our retired priests and helped to establish the Trust as a reflection of the gratitude and appreciation of the faithful parishioners in the Archdiocese of Toronto.
Through your support of The Shepherds’ Trust, our retired priests are given the dignity of a monthly allowance, health care and other assistance in their golden years – often well beyond the recognized retirement age of 75.
Parishioners of the Archdiocese have always responded with great generosity to the annual Shepherds’ Trust fundraising campaign. As a result, the Trust is in a good long-term financial position. It continues to provide a modest income and health benefits to our retired clergy.
Here is some high-level information about The Shepherds’ Trust for your interest:
In 2022 the Trust generated $5.5 million in receipts, down 16% from 2021.
During 2022, a total of $3.6 million consisting mainly of monthly allowances was paid to 107 retired priests.
In January 2023, the maximum monthly allowance paid to the retired priests increased to $3,016.
OUR MISSION
The mission of The Shepherds’ Trust is to provide elderly and disabled diocesan priests with resources to lead a dignified life after many years of active ministry.
“I learned that real pastoral care is not helping people by offering simplistic solutions or pious platitudes – it's standing with them in the midst of their pain. To do that, you have to be in touch with your own humanity. To connect, it has to come from the heart.”
— Msgr. James Hannah