Camilla Jessen
Pope Leo XIV asks for help to support the Church’s mission and care for those in need.
The Vatican is facing serious financial problems and has launched a new fundraising campaign centered around Pope Leo XIV.
A short video, released on Wednesday, encourages people to donate to help the Catholic Church continue its work.
The one-minute video was shown on big screens in St. Peter’s Square and later shared online by Vatican News.
It opens with the white smoke from Pope Leo XIV’s election on May 8, followed by his first words as pope: “Peace be with you all!” The clip shows cheering crowds and peaceful music in the background.
The message invites the faithful to support Peter’s Pence – a fund used to help the Church and its charity efforts.
“Through your donation, you help the Holy Father take his first steps as pope. Help him spread the Gospel and support those in need,” the video says.
Donations Don’t Cover the Costs
According to Digi24, in 2023, Peter’s Pence received €48.4 million in donations.
The largest portion—over 28%—came from the United States. But the Vatican spent much more. The fund paid out €103 million that year.
The Church’s wider financial issues are also growing.
In its last official budget from mid-2024, the Vatican reported a deficit of €83 million, according to Reuters.
An earlier report in 2022 warned that the Vatican’s pension fund had a shortfall of €631 million. And Church insiders believe that number has since gone up.