Although collections in parishes are yet to reach pre-pandemic levels, there was an increase from 2020, which saw churches closed for three months and collections dropping by some 40%.

Increases in income from donations, property rentals, fundraising activities, and public funds were also registered. Meanwhile, the Archdiocese received COVID-19 financial assistance amounting to €1.2 million.

However, there was a decrease in income from inheritances and fees from homes for the elderly, since several beds had to be kept empty due to the pandemic in case of an emergency.

Meanwhile, the Archdiocese’s expenditure also climbed by  €4.5 million over the previous year, two-thirds of which covered wages of the clergy and laity.

Operating costs, including maintenance, restoration and conservation decreased by €440,000. Charitable donations to people in need increased by 17% adding up to a total of €560,000. The taxation charge paid by the Archdiocese amounted to €1.8 million

Pace Ross said that the surplus will help the Church continue its work during this year, in particular when one takes into consideration the instability in the financial markets caused by inflation and the war in Ukraine.

Photo credit: Archdiocese of Malta 

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