December 9, 2025

Dear Bishop Patrick Neary, C.S.C.,

I am writing to you to express my sadness and frustration regarding the underfunding of the Christian Brothers Pension Fund, especially in the context of Catholic education. I attended the Catholic elementary school in Foley as a child, which was a wonderful experience that shaped my path in life. All my siblings (10 in total) also attended this school. As an adult, I chose to become a teacher and applied at that same school, but the salary was low; after four years, I was earning only $18,000.00 a year. My husband and I believed that if I could continue teaching in Catholic schools, it would provide a great environment for our children to learn and grow as Catholics. Over the years, I seriously considered applying to public schools, but we felt that the pension concerns were important for our future. We eventually moved, and I applied at Holy Family School in Albany, where I have been teaching for the past 21 years. We are raising six children, and it has been challenging to manage our finances on a Catholic school teacher’s salary, but we have made it work. Unfortunately, a few of my co-workers had to leave due to the low salary; it was particularly heartbreaking when one of them, who had recently divorced, couldn't afford to stay. Tragically, she chose to keep her money in the pension and is now facing the consequences.

I sincerely hope and pray that the diocese can find a way to adequately fund our pension or at least present a reasonable solution. I believe that diocesan workers deserve a fair, just, and honest pension as promised when we signed our work agreements. I teach my students about Catholic Social Teachings, and it's vital that we embody these principles. Just as we would never abandon our priests, it should not be acceptable to neglect our needs. Perhaps some programs may need to be cut to address this situation, or we could initiate a capital campaign to establish a fund that resolves these pension concerns. I also think it’s crucial for parishioners to be informed about what is happening so they can support us. We truly need a shepherd in this matter! Additionally, I was disappointed to read the Central MN Catholic magazine yesterday and noticed that our situation is not on your priority list. I hope and pray that Catholic education and the welfare of teachers like me, Mary Kay Eiynck, will be prioritized. Teachers have played a significant role in raising and educating thousands of children, and I am confident that families would rally to support us if they were made aware of our plight.

I look forward to hearing about a fair solution that ensures we do not lose any of our promised benefits. Thank you for your time and all you do for the people!