Catholic Dictionary

Find accurate definitions of over 5,000 Catholic terms and phrases (including abbreviations). Based on Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

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PETER'S PENCE

The annual contribution from the faithful of various countries to defray the expenses of the Holy See. It seems to have started in England, where each owner of land of certain value gave a penny. It was re-established by Pope Pius IX after having lapsed since the Reformation. In some countries the contributions are gathered by various associations; in others it is an annual collection sent by the bishops to the pope.