Pope Leo XIV celebrated his 71st birthday by repealing Vatican salary cuts imposed during the COVID-19 financial crisis. In a reversal of the usual birthday arrangement, employees received the gift while the birthday celebrant signed the paperwork.
The reductions began in 2021
Pope Francis cut salaries by 10% for cardinals serving in the Roman Curia, 8% for senior department heads and secretaries, and 3% for clergy and members of religious orders employed by the Vatican. The measures were designed to protect jobs when pandemic shutdowns sharply reduced Vatican revenue.
Leo said the emergency restrictions could now end while Vatican institutions continued pursuing financial sustainability through other means. The repeal took effect September 1, but it does not restore seniority increases that employees missed while the rules were active.
The finances are better, not magically fixed
Associated Press reported the decree on September 14, 2026. The Holy See has faced chronic deficits, rising pension obligations and pressure for greater financial transparency.
Faith institutions talk often about dignity of work; payroll is where the sermon meets the spreadsheet. Ending emergency cuts sends a useful signal to people who kept the Vatican operating through the pandemic. The harder work is building sustainable finances without returning to austerity whenever the collection plate looks nervous.
Facts first. Side-eye included.
DJF separates what is confirmed from what is claimed—and tells you why this particular mess is worth your time.