Religion and wealth don’t always go hand in hand, but some religious leaders have amassed enormous fortunes through megachurches, book sales, television ministries, and speaking engagements. While many religious figures dedicate their lives to humility and service, others have become multimillionaires—or even billionaires.
Here’s a look at some of the richest religious leaders and how they built their wealth.
1. Walter Mercado – $5 Million 
The late Puerto Rican astrologer and spiritual leader
Famous for his television appearances and horoscope readings
Sold extravagant capes at auction after his passing in 2019
Mercado was not a traditional religious leader, but his massive influence on Latin American spirituality secured him a fortune.
2. Eddie Long – $5 Million 
Led a megachurch in Georgia
Advocated for “faith-based prosperity”, believing wealth was a sign of divine favor
Owned a private jet, luxury cars, and a million-dollar mansion
His lavish lifestyle sparked controversy, but Long remained one of the most influential pastors in the U.S. before his passing.
3. Paula White-Cain – $5 Million 
Televangelist and former spiritual advisor to a U.S. president
Built her wealth through ministries, books, and speaking engagements
Overcame a difficult childhood to become one of the most recognized female pastors
Her charismatic preaching style and leadership in megachurches helped her rise to financial success.
4. Juanita Bynum – $10 Million 
Known for her powerful sermons and gospel music
Built a following through best-selling books, worship albums, and speaking tours
Once canceled an event after a privacy violation at her hotel
Bynum’s multifaceted career in preaching and music contributed to her growing fortune.
5. Joseph Prince – $5 Million 
Co-founder and senior pastor of New Creation Church in Singapore
Televised sermons reach millions worldwide
Earns through books, conferences, and online ministries
His global ministry and best-selling Christian books have made him a millionaire.
6. Reinhard Bonnke – $4 Million 
Famous for his evangelical work in Africa
Held some of the largest religious crusades in history
Passed away in 2019 but left a lasting legacy
Bonnke’s massive gatherings—some with over 6 million attendees—cemented his influence.
7. T.D. Jakes – $18 Million 
Pastor of The Potter’s House Church in Dallas, Texas
Owns a $45 million church complex
Sells best-selling books and films
Jakes has leveraged media, business, and religion to build a multimillion-dollar empire.
8. Kirk Cameron – $20 Million 
Former child actor turned Christian speaker and filmmaker
Starred in faith-based films and evangelical projects
Advocated for Christian values in Hollywood
Cameron’s transition from sitcom star to religious leader made him one of the wealthiest in faith-based entertainment.
9. Clifton Davis – $3 Million 
Wrote Jackson 5’s hit song “Never Can Say Goodbye”
Acted in musicals, Broadway productions, and gospel programs
Used his showbiz charisma to preach and inspire
His entertainment background helped him become a well-known gospel minister.
10. Rick Warren – $25 Million 
Founder of Saddleback Church in California
Author of The Purpose Driven Life, one of the best-selling Christian books ever
Uses his wealth to fund charitable missions and church expansion
Warren is one of the most financially successful Christian authors and pastors.
Leave a Reply