What do cardinals actually earn in the Vatican – and what about Germany? A look behind the scenes shows: In addition to the salary, tax -free extras and ideal motifs play a major role. But savings are also made here.
Salary and discounts in the Vatican
Cardinals that work in the Roman Curia receive a monthly content of around 4,000 to 5,500 euros. This income is supplemented by various tax -free discounts. This includes subsidized apartments, access to cheap shops and other extras. These additional services make the position in the Vatican attractive despite the comparatively moderate salary.
In addition to these financial aspects, cardinals in the Vatican benefit from other advantages. For example, medical care, transport and other living costs are often covered by the Vatican. This comprehensive support enables the cardinals to concentrate fully on their spiritual and administrative tasks without having to worry about everyday financial interests.
Salary differences between Vatican and Germany
Cardinals receive a significantly higher content in Germany. Depending on the diocese, your monthly income is between 10,000 and 13,800 euros. This difference can be explained by the different financing models: While the Vatican state generates its own income, the salaries of German cardinals are largely financed by state benefits.
Financial challenges and austerity measures
Despite the extensive assets, the Vatican faces financial challenges. In 2021, a budget deficit of almost 50 million euros was recorded. In response to this, the former Pope Francis announced salary cuts for cardinals and other high civil servants. This measure should help ensure the financial stability of the Holy Chair.
The salary cuts concerned not only the cardinals, but also other employees of the Vatican. For example, the salaries of prefects and secretaries of the dicasteries were reduced by eight percent, while clergymen and religious in lower salary levels had to accept a reduction of three percent, as an online contribution from Katholisch.de reports. These measures illustrate the efforts of the Vatican to act in solidarity and fairly despite financial bottlenecks.
The motivation behind the service
The decision to work in the Vatican is often less financially motivated than ideal. Many employees are deeply religious and see their work as a contribution to the Mission of the Church. And yet the Vatican tries to professionalize and market adjustment, especially for specialists in technology, communication and finance. Because the following also applies in the state of the church: good people want to be paid fairly.
D. Maier / Redaktion Finanzen.net