Running a church can be a lucrative business these days. While a church leader’s preaching salary may not be in the millions, many Christian pastors sell DVDs, books, and find other ways of build a major fortune. The fact that many of the richest pastors head megachurches and therefore have large followings ensures that their ministry can make major dough.
More and more Black preachers are building an empire, and thus, being able to purchase private planes, mansions, fancy cars, jewelry, and a slew of other extravagant items. Sometimes church leaders are criticized for being rich and having church members who are struggling financially, but others view preachers’ fortunes as a blessing for touching the lives of millions of people and bringing people closer to God.
Check out our list of 5 of the richest pastors in the world.
Bishop T.D. Jakes
Net worth: $18 million
Bishop T.D. Jakes is the bishop of The Potter’s House, a non-denominational megachurch in Dallas, Texas. Named “America’s Best Preacher” by Time magazine, Jakes leads a church of 30,000 members and also airs his sermons on television. He’s written over 30 books, produced several films, and is gearing up to host his own talk show this fall. Jakes lives in a Dallas mansion that is reportedly worth $1.7 million.
David Oyedepo
Net worth: $150 million
This Nigerian pastor founded Living Faith World Outreach Ministry in Ogun State, Nigeria. The church holds 50,000 people and consists of the largest congregation in Africa. According to Forbes, he owns four private jets and owns homes in London and the United States.
Enoch Adeboye
Net worth: $55 million
Enoch Adeboye is the leader of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) in Lagos, Nigeria. The church has branches in over 100 countries and over 14,000 in Nigeria. Newsweek named him one of the most powerful people in the world. He owns at least three private jets.
Chris Oyakhilome
Net worth: $50 million
As founder and president of Believers’ LoveWorld Incorporated, also known as “Christ Embassy,” Chris Oyakhilome delivers sermons that air on multiple television stations. He was once accused of transferring millions of dollars from his church to foreign banks, but the case was dismissed.
Creflo Dollar
Net worth: $27 million
Creflo Dollar founded the non-denominational World Changers Church International in Georgia. He’s the publisher of the ministry newsletter, CHANGE magazine, which has 100,000 subscribers. He owns two Rolls-Royces, a $1 million home in Atlanta, and a $2.5 million home in Manhattan. In 2015, Dollar was criticized for asking his congregation for $65 million for a private jet.
