Does the Vatican publish financial records?

[JackPaul]

A protestant friend of mine is attacking the idea that the Church has a lot of money, art and property and they should sell this all to feed the poor. I have made the usual arguments against selling off art and property. He wants to know where all the money goes that we send to Rome and is reluctant to believe that the Church is spending very much on foriegn aid or assistance. What is a good resource to show just how much the Church contributes to the world in the way of aid? Does the Church publish any kind of financial information?
Thanks,
jack

 

[Reginald_Plum]

Jack,

These links should be helpful in your discussions with your friend about the Vatican’s finances. The last one explains the scriptural commands for fine things to be used for worship and in the Lord’s house. If you have any further questions or concerns that are not answered by these links, please contact Catholic Answers directly.

Recommended Reading:
How is the Vatican funded?
Shouldn’t the Church sell off its artifacts?
Is luxurious living a sin?
When is trying to make money working for mammon?
Is it a sin to be rich?

Live Simply? Live Shrewdly by Donna Doornik
The Mass, the Temple, and Loraine Boettner by T.L. Frazier