Serving where government falls short, the Church strengthens communities and saves taxpayers billions
Saint Paul, Minn. – The Catholic Church in Minnesota is a pillar of faith and service, and it also plays a significant role in the state’s economic and social well-being. A new report released by the Minnesota Catholic Conference, Fruits of the Vine: The Economic Impact of the Catholic Church in Minnesota, estimates that Catholic programs contribute over $5 billion annually to the state’s economy and serve 1.2 million people across various communities.
The report was commissioned by the Minnesota Catholic Conference and conducted by researchers from the University of Colorado and associated with the Institute for Policy Research at The Catholic University of America. The comprehensive study highlights the often-overlooked economic contributions of the Catholic Church in Minnesota - both economically and socially. The report provides an overview of these benefits and the estimated monetary value of each.
“This report affirms the Catholic Church’s commitment to Minnesota goes beyond spiritual and moral leadership,” said Jason Adkins, Minnesota Catholic Conference Executive Director. “From creating jobs and supporting small businesses to easing the burden on taxpayer-funded programs, the Church delivers real, measurable benefits to Minnesotans in areas where government resources are limited. In return, all we ask of our elected leaders is the freedom to serve in accordance with our faith—without government interference.”
Significant report findings include:
Healthcare: As the largest non-governmental provider of healthcare in the world, Catholic healthcare organizations in Minnesota contribute $3.2 billion annually through hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospice care, and home care services.
Education: Catholic schools serve 40,000 students from Pre-K through high school in Minnesota. Combined, from pre-K through higher education, Catholic education organizations provide $1.45 billion in economic benefits to the state.
Volunteer Service: Catholic-affiliated organizations contribute over 500,000 volunteer hours each year, serving over 80,000 people and generating a combined benefit of nearly $80 million.
Events: Weddings, funerals, festivals, and other events hosted by the Catholic Church attract 900,000 visitors annually, contributing over $56 million to local economies through spending on food, services, and lodging.
Beyond the direct economic impact, the report also examines the social impact of the Catholic Church, citing the critical role parishes and independent organizations play in feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, and providing direct financial aid to those most in need in Minnesota communities.
“These initiatives not only transform lives but also reduce the strain on public resources, demonstrating the Catholic Churches’ long-term mission of service,” Adkins said.
By releasing this report, the Minnesota Catholic Conference is highlighting the Church’s continued mission to serve Minnesota and inspire further collaboration with government agencies and community stakeholders to strengthen the state’s financial and social foundations.
Read the full report at www.mncatholic.org/fruitsofthevine.