Pastors who have amassed considerable fortunes, blending religious leadership with successful business and media ventures.
Topping the list is Brazil’s Edir Macedo, with an estimated net worth of $1.8 billion. He founded the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God in 1977 and significantly expanded his wealth through media ownership, including Rede Record, Brazil’s second-largest television network.
Following closely is South Africa’s Alph Lukau, founder of Alleluia Ministries International, with a reported net worth of $1 billion. Known for his lavish lifestyle, Lukau possesses a private jet and an impressive collection of luxury vehicles.
Another Brazilian pastor, Valdemiro Santiago, ranks third with $350 million. After leaving Macedo’s church, he established the World Church of the Power of God and made headlines for purchasing a $45 million jet.
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American televangelist Kenneth Copeland occupies the fourth position with $300 million. A prominent prosperity gospel preacher, he maintains a controversial lifestyle that includes multiple private jets.
Malawi’s Shepherd Bushiri and Nigeria’s David Oyedepo tie for fifth place with $150 million each. While Bushiri built his wealth through a diverse business empire, Oyedepo’s fortune comes from his Living Faith Church network and educational enterprises, including Covenant University.
The list continues with Nigeria’s Chris Oyakhilome ($126 million), Brazil’s Romildo Ribeiro Soares ($125 million), and the late American televangelist Pat Robertson ($100 million).
Joel Osteen, pastor of Houston’s Lakewood Church, completes the top ten with an estimated $100 million fortune derived from church operations, bestselling books, and speaking engagements.
These religious leaders demonstrate how ministry, when combined with media ventures and business acumen, can generate substantial personal wealth.
cc: Pulse NG
