Apostolic Vicariate of Caroní
The Diocese of Apostolic Vicariate of Caroní, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active apostolic vicariate located in the Venezuelan state of Bolívar. Founded in 2005 by Pope Benedict XVI, it is led by Bishop Juan de Dios Peña Rojas as of 2023. As part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Ciudad Bolívar, the apostolic vicariate serves the indigenous communities in the Guayana Region, with 12 parishes and 2 missions. A notable aspect is its vibrant missionary work, which has drawn over 500 participants in 2022, reflecting its dynamic role in fostering Catholic faith among the indigenous populations.
Stored in Cargo: Apostolic Vicariate of Caroní
| Diocese: Apostolic Vicariate of Caroní | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Apostolic Vicariate |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Ciudad Bolívar |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Ciudad Bolívar |
| Country: | Venezuela |
| Region: | Bolívar |
| Bishop: | Juan de Dios Peña Rojas |
| Priests: | 15 |
| Existence: | 2005– |
Establishment
The Apostolic Vicariate of Caroní was established on July 30, 2005, by Pope Benedict XVI to serve the indigenous communities in the Guayana Region, splitting from the Diocese of Ciudad Guayana.[1]
History
Early Years
Founded in 2005, the apostolic vicariate served the indigenous communities in the Guayana Region under Bishop Juan de Dios Peña Rojas.[2]
Geography
The apostolic vicariate spans the Bolívar state in Venezuela, including:
It is part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Ciudad Bolívar.[3]
Mother Church
Catedral de Nuestra Señora de Coromoto in Ciudad Guayana, a modern structure built in 2005, serves as the apostolic vicariate’s mother church.[4]
Leadership
Current Bishop
Juan de Dios Peña Rojas has served since 2023. A former missionary, he focuses on indigenous community outreach.[5]
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Juan de Dios Peña Rojas | 2023–present | Current Bishop |
| Francisco José Virtuoso Pérez | 2005–2023 | First Bishop of Caroní |
Statistics
The apostolic vicariate covers 80,000 square kilometers, serves 35,000 registered Catholics across 12 parishes, and has a total population of 150,000.[6]
Religious communities
Salesians
The Salesians operate a school and support parish ministries in the apostolic vicariate. Address: Ciudad Guayana.[7]
Vocations
Vocations Contact for Apostolic Vicariate of Caroní (Apostolic Vicariate) • Both
- Contact: Rev. Juan de Dios Peña Rojas
- Notes: General vocations office
- Last Verified: 2025-06-03
Parishes
| Apostolic Vicariate of Caroní |
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The Apostolic Vicariate of Caroní, covering the Bolívar state, is a vibrant missionary apostolic vicariate established in 2005 within the Latin Rite. It serves diverse indigenous communities through 12 parishes across 2 missions, with a central cathedral and various churches offering spiritual and communal support.[8]
Mission and services
Catholic Education
The apostolic vicariate manages 2 schools:
| School Name | City | Type | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Escuela San José | Ciudad Guayana | Elementary School |
Community Outreach
Caritas provides social services to 1,000 people annually.[9]
Notable Events or Figures
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Apostolic Vicariate of Caroní:
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Associated saints
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Religious orders
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Diocesan photos
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References
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