ROME — During a Saturday meeting at the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace, Pope Leo XIV urged affluent American Catholics to maintain their financial support for his charitable initiatives, demonstrating how the selection of America’s first pope has energized Catholic donors nationwide.
The pontiff, originally from Chicago, addressed members of The Papal Foundation during their yearly Rome pilgrimage. This organization serves as a significant source of funding for papal development initiatives across developing nations.
Speaking to the foundation’s leaders, Leo expressed gratitude for their financial contributions, stating they have enabled “countless people to experience in a concrete fashion the goodness and kindness of God in their own communities.”
The pope specifically highlighted clergy from impoverished nations who receive educational opportunities at Rome’s pontifical universities through foundation-sponsored scholarships. Over four decades, the organization’s combined grants have exceeded $270 million.
Although The Papal Foundation maintained consistent contributions throughout Pope Francis’ twelve-year leadership, other Vatican donations declined significantly during economic downturns, the pandemic, and various challenges. Additionally, some American Catholics became reluctant to support the Holy See after ongoing reports of financial mismanagement, corruption, and scandals, compounded by Francis’ public criticism of American capitalism.
Leo’s appointment appears to have revitalized the American Catholic community, particularly among major donors. The Papal Foundation revealed Saturday that members had authorized over $15 million in grants for 2026, establishing a new record in the organization’s 38-year existence.
Furthermore, the foundation reported that 25 additional families had become members since Leo’s election one year ago, providing the clearest indication that selecting an American, English-speaking pope with mathematical training and financial acumen has benefited church fundraising efforts.
“The growth we’re seeing is incredibly encouraging, as it reflects a shared commitment to serve, to give, and to bring the church’s mission to life in meaningful ways across the globe,” stated David Savage, the foundation’s executive director.
The late Cardinal John Krol of Philadelphia established the foundation in 1988 to provide wealthy American Catholics a direct avenue for supporting papal charitable programs.
Membership requires a $1 million contribution to a fund supporting papal projects, including constructing orphanages and monasteries. Among the 2026 approved initiatives are building a secure school for marginalized tribal children in India and providing professional technical education for vulnerable women in the Philippines.
The foundation’s membership includes all American cardinals and operates under a board of trustees comprising Catholic laypeople and bishops.
