Apostolic Vicariate of Chaco Paraguayo
The Diocese of Apostolic Vicariate of Chaco Paraguayo, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active apostolic vicariate encompassing the Chaco region in Paraguay. Founded in 1957 by Pope Pius XII, it is led by Bishop Juan Bautista Gavilán Velásquez as of 2023. As part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Asunción, the apostolic vicariate serves a diverse community in a historically remote and underserved area, with 12 parishes and 2 missions. A notable aspect is its vibrant missionary work, reflecting its dynamic role in fostering Catholic faith in the region.
Stored in Cargo: Apostolic Vicariate of Chaco Paraguayo
| Diocese: Apostolic Vicariate of Chaco Paraguayo | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Apostolic Vicariate |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Asunción |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Asunción |
| Country: | Paraguay |
| Region: | Chaco |
| Bishop: | Juan Bautista Gavilán Velásquez |
| Priests: | 5 |
| Existence: | 1957– |
Establishment
The Apostolic Vicariate of Chaco Paraguayo was established on May 11, 1957, by Pope Pius XII to serve the growing Catholic population in the Chaco region of Paraguay, which had previously been part of the Diocese of Concepción y Chaco.[1]
History
The Apostolic Vicariate of Chaco Paraguayo has its roots in the early missionary work in the Chaco region, which dates back to the 19th century. The region's remote location and lack of infrastructure made it a challenging area for missionary work, but the vicariate has been able to establish a strong presence and provide essential services to the local community.
Geography
The Apostolic Vicariate of Chaco Paraguayo covers the Chaco region in western Paraguay, including the departments of Alto Paraguay, Boquerón, and Presidente Hayes. The region is characterized by its vast savannas, forests, and wetlands, and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Mother Church
The mother church of the Apostolic Vicariate of Chaco Paraguayo is the Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción in the town of Fuerte Olimpo, which serves as the seat of the vicariate.
Leadership
Current Bishop
The current bishop of the Apostolic Vicariate of Chaco Paraguayo is Juan Bautista Gavilán Velásquez, who was appointed on December 18, 2021.[2]
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ángel Nicolás Acha Duarte | 1957–1968 | First bishop of the apostolic vicariate. |
| Alejo del Carmen Obelar Colman | 1968–1986 | Served as bishop during a period of significant growth and development in the vicariate. |
| Zacarías Ortiz Rolón | 1988–2001 | Played a key role in promoting social justice and human rights in the region. |
| Edward Deliman | 2001–2011 | Focused on strengthening the vicariate's missionary work and promoting vocations. |
| Gabriel Escobar Ayala | 2011–2021 | Emphasized the importance of education and healthcare in the region. |
Statistics
The Apostolic Vicariate of Chaco Paraguayo covers an area of approximately 62,000 square kilometers and serves a population of around 20,000 Catholics. The vicariate has 12 parishes and 2 missions, and is served by 5 priests.
Religious Communities
The Apostolic Vicariate of Chaco Paraguayo is home to several religious communities, including the Salesians of Don Bosco and the Sisters of the Immaculate Conception.
Vocations
Parishes
| Apostolic Vicariate of Chaco Paraguayo |
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The Apostolic Vicariate of Chaco Paraguayo has 12 parishes and 2 missions, which are served by 5 priests. The parishes are located in the departments of Alto Paraguay, Boquerón, and Presidente Hayes.
Mission and Services
The Apostolic Vicariate of Chaco Paraguayo is committed to providing essential services to the local community, including education, healthcare, and social welfare programs. The vicariate also supports various missionary initiatives and promotes vocations to the priesthood and religious life.
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Apostolic Vicariate of Chaco Paraguayo:
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References
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Chaco Paraguayo". https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/diocese/dchp.html. Retrieved 2023-12-01.
- ↑ "Bishop Juan Bautista Gavilán Velásquez". https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/bishop/bgavilan.html. Retrieved 2023-12-01.