The phrase “as poor as a church rat” may have once held true, but in today’s world, some churches have amassed vast fortunes. These institutions are no longer symbols of poverty but rather significant financial entities, thanks to generous contributions from members, tax-exempt status, and strategic investments.
1. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS)
The LDS Church, commonly known as the Mormon Church, is among the richest religious organizations globally. According to The Widow’s Mite, the church’s wealth surged to an estimated $265 billion in 2023, marking an increase of nearly $29 billion from the previous year.
2. The Catholic Church in Australia
One of Australia’s oldest religious institutions, the Catholic Church, is also among the wealthiest. An inquiry by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation estimated its total assets at approximately $30 billion. Recent calls have been made to review the church’s tax-exempt status following a revealing Fairfax report.
3. Seventh-day Adventist Church
While Seventh-day Adventists are focused on the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, they have also accumulated considerable earthly wealth. The Conversation estimates the church’s worth at $15.6 billion, with investments in a publishing house, broadcasting systems, and food manufacturing.
4. The Vatican
The Vatican Church’s wealth is substantial, with estimates ranging between $10 billion and $15 billion, according to The Times. Its Italian stockholdings alone are valued at $1.6 billion, accounting for 15% of Italy’s market share. The Vatican’s investments span across banking, insurance, chemicals, steel, construction, and real estate.
5. The Church of England
The Church of England boasts a vast property portfolio and investments worth £8.3 billion. Research by the National Secular Society highlights significant assets, including £27 million for the Corporation of Church House, £49 million for the Archbishop’s Council, £6.7 billion for the Church Commissioners, and £1.2 billion for the Church of England Pensions Board. The Church owns 16,000 churches and 42 cathedrals, many of which are Grade 1 listed, and has collected £57 million from parishioners.
These five churches are financial powerhouses, with net worths that surpass those of many global corporations and companies.
