Vatican Reports $15 Million Deficit

[LauraK]

(AP) The Vatican reported a deficit for the second consecutive year Wednesday - about $15 million - blaming the shortfall on heavy personnel costs and the Holy See's expanding diplomatic mission.

But it said contributions last year to the pope, donations known as Peter's Pence, were slightly up, an increase that would belie fears of a sharp drop in giving because of the sex abuse scandal in the United States and other countries.

The Vatican presented its annual financial report a day before a scheduled news conference to discuss the figures.

It listed 2002 revenues of $245 million and costs of $260 million for a deficit of about $15 million.
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[ps1074]

1. The Pope should cut taxes immediately

[Palacsinta]

2. Maybe they can sell indulgences?

Sorry, that was mean. On that subject, good PBS special on tonight (at least around here in PA) on Martin Luther.

[Generic Other]

3. They could have a heck of a liquidation sale!

Hard to feel much sympathy for an organization that probably has a dozen books stashed somewhere in the basement that no one has looked at for 500 years that would cover the debt and more. The church has lots of cool stuff, and a nice steady income. I wish I was that kind of in debt.

[tomp]

6. remember "the shoes of the fisherman" anyone?

i really liked that film, especially for the ending (don't worry, i won't give it away).

on another note, i don't ever believe the vatican. i read somewhere vatican city is #8 on the list of money laundering countries. not to mention they could sell the church and the land its on in my little home town for about $25 million easy.

[ClintonTyree]

4. Of course.............

paying off the victims of rape by priests is cutting into their bottom line as well. Their parishiners had better start ponying up a little more, a room in the kingdom of heaven doesn't come cheap. That is of course unless you book online using travelocity.

[cantwealljustgetalong]

5. check the basement...

there may be some looted gold down there...