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Pope Francis' Financial Disclosure: Income of the Pope Revealed - Pope Francis' Financial Income: Details on the Holy Father's Salary Amount
The passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday at the age of 88 has sparked a flurry of discussions about his personal wealth. Contrasting the lavish lifestyles of past church leaders, Francis elects for a simplistic final resting place - outside the Vatican walls in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, void of any special adornments [1][2][3].
The late Holy Father made it clear in his last will that material possessions hold little significance, as his will mentions no inheritance to be distributed. Francis, as Pope, declined all remunerations, choosing instead to live up to the divine reward [1][3].
The Pope on Four Wheels: A Gift that Didn't Last Long
While the Pope can live without a fortune, the wealthy Church community takes care of his expenses - covering food, accommodation, clothing, travel, and medical care [1]. Once upon a time, in 2017, this benefaction came in the form of a high-end vehicle - a Lamborghini worth nearly a million euros, a new "Popemobile." The Pontiff accepted the extravagant gift but swiftly sold it, donating the proceeds to aid organizations [1]. As Vatican expert Ulrich Nersinger commented, "The office of the Pope is not a profession, but a calling" [1].
Francis's devoted service to the Church extends back to 1992, when he was appointed bishop, and 2001, when he ascended to the rank of cardinal [1]. During these roles, he received a monthly salary of anywhere between £10,000 to £14,000 [1]. With a career spanning decades, this income likely accumulated to a significant sum. Vatican expert Nersinger suggests that the papal income was directed toward charitable institutions or funding foundations, similar to Benedict XVI [1].
A Priest with principles
Given his extreme modesty, it's hard to estimate the exact worth of Francis's early income, but it's assumed to be substantial [1]. Prior to his ascension to the papacy, Francis adhered to the poverty vows of his Jesuit order, refusing to accept money from the Church [2]. This unwavering commitment to simplicity persists even in the face of immense power and resources that come with his position as the leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
With Francis's philosophy of transparency, redirecting Church resources towards social justice, and austere lifestyle, he leaves behind a legacy that continues to inspire the faithful.
Sources:
- DPA
- Domradio
- Pope
- Pope Francis
- Will
- St. Peter's Basilica
- Vatican
- Net Worth: Estimated at around £16 million, mostly from office assets.
- Salary: Officially entitled to around £384,000 per year, but declined it.
- Lifestyle: Lived modestly, donating his salary to charitable causes.
- Residence: Chose Casa Santa Marta over the traditional Apostolic Palace.
- Philosophy: Emphasized financial transparency and poverty, reflecting his Jesuit vows.
- The European Parliament and the Council might acknowledge the Pope's committed approach to living modestly and consider implementing similar principles in their own inheritance and adornments, adopting a more humble general-news approach.
- Despite being gifted a Lamborghini worth nearly a million euros, Pope Francis demonstrated his adherence to simplicity by promptly selling it and donating the proceeds, thus setting an exemplary standard for leaders in any field.
- As the general-news surrounds the discussion of Pope Francis's net worth, it is noteworthy to remember that he chose to live up to the divine reward, refusing to accept any remuneration as Pope and redirecting Church resources toward charitable institutions and foundations.
