By Avro Manhattan

In his incisive works, The Dollar and the Vatican and The Vatican Billions, Avro Manhattan explores the complex interplay between the Vatican’s immense wealth and its role in global politics. Manhattan argues that the Vatican is not merely a religious institution but a formidable force in finance and international relations. He asserts that, particularly after World War II, the Vatican forged strong alliances with American banking and corporate entities, aligning their interests against communism during the Cold War.

Vatican’s Wealth and Political Ties

Manhattan highlights the Church’s vast fortune, accrued through centuries of donations, land ownership, and strategic investments. He claims that the Vatican is one of the richest entities in the world, leveraging its financial power to influence political landscapes. For instance, during the Cold War, the Vatican supported conservative regimes, further intertwining its financial interests with political agendas, especially in Europe and Latin America.

The Role of the Jesuits

Central to Manhattan’s critique is the role of the Jesuits, a powerful order within the Church. He describes them as secretive players who significantly shape Vatican policies, often aligning with corporate elites and maintaining the status quo rather than advocating for the poor.

Financial Practices and Scandals

While not solely focused on usury, Manhattan critiques how the Vatican has adapted its financial practices to align with contemporary banking systems, a shift that contradicts its historical stance against exploitation. The secrecy surrounding its financial dealings has led to scandals, such as the Banco Ambrosiano collapse and the involvement with figures like Michele Sindona, both of which reveal a troubling pattern of corruption and ethical compromise.

Conclusion

Overall, Manhattan’s critical examination of the Vatican illustrates a stark contradiction between the Church’s teachings on charity and its actions in accumulating and wielding wealth. His works raise essential questions about the Vatican’s focus on financial power, suggesting that its priorities often divert from its spiritual mission to assist the needy.

Credit to @theogeopolitics for first posting about these books.