A GROWTH in the number of Brisbane archdiocese’s retiring priests has led to the start of construction on units at West End.
Dean of St Stephen’s Cathedral Fr Ken Howell said the construction of the $2.8 million block of units in Browning Street, West End, would be “a significant step towards providing good accommodation for priests in their retirement”.
The Priests’ Home Retirement Fund, a body established in 1973 by the archdiocese’s priests, will provide funding for this and future projects to accommodate priests in their retirement.
Fr Howell, who is also the chairman of the body, said it was the first time the fund had been used to build such a substantial property.
“There are a number of properties around Brisbane where priests can live in retirement,” he said.
“However, with increased numbers of retiring priests needing accommodation, complexes such as the one at West End will provide one suitable solution.”
Once priests turn 70, they can seek approval from the archbishop to step down from the role of parish priest.
More than will have reached or exceeded the age of 70 in the next decade.
This situation is expected to add significantly to the number of priests seeking retirement accommodation.
The Browning Street units are expected to be ready for occupation by June next year.
