Archdiocese of Cologne

The Archdiocese of Cologne has reported a budget surplus of 15.6 million euros, driven by rising revenues, according to the Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger. The figures come as church finances in Germany draw growing scrutiny amid declining membership and debates over how dioceses spend church tax income. The surplus is likely to fuel discussion about the archdiocese's financial management, which has been a sensitive topic locally in recent years.