Top 5 richest churches in the world
Churches often wield massive influence in society, and part of this influence stems from their substantial wealth.
While their primary mission is spiritual, many of these organizations have accumulated considerable financial assets, making them some of the wealthiest entities globally.
1. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: Commonly known as the LDS or Mormon Church, this institution is among the wealthiest religious organizations worldwide. According to The Widow’s Mite, the church’s total wealth reached an estimated $265 billion in 2023, marking a nearly $29 billion increase from the previous year.
2. Catholic Church in Australia
The Catholic Church in Australia, one of the oldest religious institutions in the country, holds significant financial power. An inquiry by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation estimated the church’s wealth at approximately $30 billion. Recent reports have led to calls for a reexamination of the church’s tax-exempt status.
3. Seventh-day Adventists
Despite their focus on the imminent Second Coming of Jesus Christ, the Seventh-day Adventist Church has amassed notable wealth. As reported by The Conversation, the church’s assets are valued at $15.6 billion, with investments in a publishing house, broadcasting network, and food production facilities.
4. Vatican Church
The Vatican, the central authority of the Roman Catholic Church, possesses immense wealth. Estimates from The Times place the Vatican’s financial holdings between $10 billion and $15 billion, with Italian stockholdings alone valued at $1.6 billion. The Vatican also has significant investments in banking, insurance, and real estate.
5. Church of England
The Church of England, with its extensive property and investment portfolio, is another major player among wealthy religious institutions. The church’s assets are valued at £8.3 billion, including properties and various funds. The Church owns 16,000 churches and 42 cathedrals, many of which are historically significant, and has collected £57 million from parishioners.
