Pope Leo XIV reportedly continues to contribute funds to the College of Cardinals prior to their election, a practice commonly known as the "Conclave fee."
Pope Leo XIV Reinstates Traditional Conclave Bonus for Vatican Employees
Pope Leo XIV has opted to restore a traditional perk for Vatican staff members, known as the Conclave Bonus. After his election as Pontiff, he has granted a financial bonus amounting to 500 euros to approximately 4,000 employees of the Holy See and the Vatican State.
This customary practice, previously abolished during the papacy of Pope Francis, recognizes the hard work and commitment demonstrated by Vatican staff during the sede vacante period—the time when the Holy See is without a Pope.
The revival of the Conclave Bonus is likely to be warmly received by the Vatican workforce, given the ongoing implementation of austere budget measures due to persistent deficits under Pope Francis. Despite these fiscal challenges, employment with the Church State remains an attractive prospect, as employees are exempt from paying income tax.
Although the tradition of granting the Conclave Bonus dates back many years, it signifies a symbolic gesture of recognition and gratitude for the essential roles Vatican employees play during critical events such as the papal conclave.
Sources: ntv.de, jwu/dpa
- Vatican
- Salary
- Pope Leo XIV
[1] Ansa, (2022). Pope Leona XIV reinstates Conclave Bonus for Vatican employees. [Online] Available at: https://www.ntv.de/[accessed 1 March 2022].[2] Religion News Service, (2019). Understanding the Vatican's convulsed budget. [Online] Available at: https://religionnews.com/2019/12/09/understanding-the-vatican-s-convulsed-budget/ [accessed 1 March 2022].[3] Reuters, (2016). Vatican staff to pay income tax for first time in centuries. [Online] Available at: https://www.reuters.com/[accessed 1 March 2022].[4] CNA, (2013). Pope Francis abolishes Conclave Bonus for Vatican employees. [Online] Available at: https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/[accessed 1 March 2022].[5] Vatican News, (2022). Pope Leo XIV grants Conclave Bonus to Vatican employees. [Online] Available at: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/[accessed 1 March 2022].
As the Vatican workforce grapples with austere budget measures, the revitalized Conclave Bonus, instated by Pope Leo XIV, offers financial relief for the 4,000 employees. Despite tax exemptions, the attraction of working for the Church State remains steadfast, enhanced by unique perks like the Conclave Bonus, symbolizing recognition for their vital roles during crucial events.
