Pope Leo XIV turned 71 this week, but his birthday was marked by a decision affecting Vatican employees. The pope reversed salary cuts introduced during Pope Francis’ pontificate as part of efforts to protect jobs during the financial pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The earlier measures included pay reductions for cardinals and clergy and salary freezes for some senior lay employees. The reversal comes as Pope Leo’s administration assesses the financial position of the Vatican and seeks to manage its institutions while maintaining their operations.
The pope also visited the Vatican Apostolic Library on his birthday and opened an exhibition focused on water, part of a five-year project titled “Catastrophe and Marvel.” The exhibition connects scientific, cultural and historical perspectives around water and its importance.
The decisions highlight the broader administrative challenges facing the Catholic Church as Pope Leo continues his first year as pontiff. His approach to Vatican finances, institutional management and the Church’s global mission is expected to remain an important part of his leadership.
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