How Much Will Pope Leo XIV Earn as the New Pontiff?
History was made as an American was elected to lead the Catholic Church for the first time. White smoke rose and the bells tolled as Cardinal Robert Prevost, a Chicago-born friar of the Order of Saint Augustine, has become Pope Leo XIV, succeeding Pope Francis following his death at 88. At 69, he steps into one of the most scrutinized roles on Earth, assuming the responsibility of spiritual leader to over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide.
Pope Leo XIV is a trailblazer in many ways. He is the first pope from North America, the second from the Americas after Pope Francis, and the first ever from the Augustinian order. His journey to the papacy has been one of service, beginning with his missionary work in rural Peru, followed by heading the Vatican’s department in charge of bishops. Additionally, he holds dual citizenship, having been naturalized in Peru in 2015. His path to the papacy has been defined by humility and devotion, qualities that many hope will guide his leadership.
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As part of his formal investiture next week, Pope Leo XIV will receive the Fisherman’s Ring, a 24-karat gold piece engraved with his name and an image of Saint Peter. The Fisherman’s Ring, a symbol of the pope’s role as a successor to Saint Peter, holds both religious and historical significance. In addition, he will have access to an ornate apartment within the Apostolic Palace, a historic building that includes private quarters, a library, and a chapel.
The frescoed ceilings and Renaissance staircases will add to the solemnity and history of his new residence. He will also have the option to reside at the Castel Gandolfo estate, a sprawling 135-acre property above Lake Albano, which includes a villa, observatory, and farm with panoramic views.
Transportation for the pope will include a custom-built, bulletproof, all-electric Mercedes-Benz Popemobile, valued at approximately $500,000. Designed for both modern security and ceremonial purposes, the vehicle features a signature dome and panoramic visibility, making it both a functional and symbolic transport for the new pontiff.
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While these privileges come with the papacy, the Pope will not receive a formal salary, as is customary. The Vatican provides for all his expenses, including housing, meals, travel, clothing, and protection. Before his papacy, Cardinal Prevost earned between $4,300 and $5,400 per month, totaling around $405,600 annually. However, as pope, he forfeits any personal salary, embracing his role as a servant leader of the Church.
Despite his extensive privileges and the lavish accommodations associated with the papacy, Pope Leo XIV is known for his humility. Born in Chicago in 1954, he joined the Order of Saint Augustine in 1977 and was ordained a priest in 1982. He spent over two decades serving in Peru, where he held several important roles, including parish pastor, seminary teacher, and diocesan official.
His naturalization as a Peruvian citizen in 2015 reflects his deep commitment to Latin America, where he worked closely with local communities. Prior to his election as pope, he served as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.
Pope Leo XIV’s election marks a new chapter in the history of the Church. His humility, dedication to service, and experience in both missionary work and church administration make him uniquely suited to lead the global Catholic community. As the Church navigates the complexities of the modern world, Pope Leo XIV’s approach promises to be grounded in compassion and leadership. The future of the Catholic Church looks bright with him at the helm, and many are hopeful that his tenure will bring unity, renewal, and a deepened commitment to the values of service and faith.
