THE WEALTHY, UNHEALTHY CHURCH
Many writers have told the traditional story of the thirteenth century Catholic theologian, Thomas Aquinas, who visited the Vatican in Rome. He was escorted through the fine buildings housing the vast Papal treasury. The Pope, referring to himself as Peter’s successor, also referred to the instance in the Book of Acts of the lame man who was healed at the Temple gate.
The Pope gestured to the incredible display of gold, wealth and precious jewels and said to Aquinas, "Peter can longer say, ’Silver and gold have I none."
Aquinas, upon hearing that statement, turned and said to the Pope, "And neither can he say, "Rise up and walk in the Name of Jesus!’"