Pope Leo XIV has reinstated the “conclave bonus,” granting 500 euros (RM 2,393.20) to roughly 5,000 Vatican employees in recognition of their service during the sede vacante.
Jun 06, 2025
Pope Leo XIV meets employees of the Holy See and their families in the Paul VI Hall at the Vatican on Saturday, May 24, 2025. | Credit: Vatican Media
VATICAN: Pope Leo XIV has reinstated the “conclave bonus,” granting 500 euros (RM 2,393.20) to roughly 5,000 Vatican employees in recognition of their service during the sede vacante. The bonus will be included in June pay cheques for staff across the Roman Curia and Vatican institutions like the Museums, Library, Pharmacy, and Media.
Traditionally offered by newly elected popes as a gesture of gratitude, the conclave bonus had been suspended in 2013 by Pope Francis, who redirected the funds to papal charities amid financial constraints.
Although Pope Leo did not directly mention the bonus in his May 24 audience with Vatican workers, he praised their dedication, saying, “Each one of you gives your contribution… with commitment and also with faith.”
Employees benefiting from the bonus include those in the Vatican bookstore, post office, clothing shops, and gas stations. Meanwhile, larger family subsidies introduced under Pope Francis continue, including a 300-euro (RM 1,435.90) monthly bonus for staff with three or more children. —CNA
