Apostolic Vicariate of Galápagos
The Diocese of Apostolic Vicariate of Galápagos, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active apostolic vicariate encompassing the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador. Founded in 1950 by Pope Pius XII, it is led by Bishop Eugenio Arellano Fernández as of 2023. As part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Quito, the apostolic vicariate serves a unique Catholic community in a UNESCO World Heritage site, with 6 parishes and 2 missions. A notable aspect is its conservation efforts, reflecting its dynamic role in fostering Catholic faith and environmental stewardship in the Pacific.
Stored in Cargo: Apostolic Vicariate of Galápagos
| Diocese: Apostolic Vicariate of Galápagos | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Apostolic Vicariate |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Quito |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Quito |
| Country: | Ecuador |
| Region: | Galápagos Islands |
| Bishop: | Eugenio Arellano Fernández |
| Priests: | 4 |
| Existence: | 1950– |
| Chancery Address: | Isabela, Galápagos, Ecuador |
Establishment
The Apostolic Vicariate of Galápagos was established on May 15, 1950, by Pope Pius XII to serve the growing Catholic population in the Galápagos Islands, which were previously part of the Archdiocese of Quito.[1]
History
The Galápagos Islands have a unique history, with the first Catholic missionaries arriving in the 19th century. The apostolic vicariate was established to provide better pastoral care to the islanders and to promote the conservation of the islands' natural resources.
Geography
The Apostolic Vicariate of Galápagos spans the entire Galápagos Islands, which are located about 1,000 km off the coast of Ecuador. The islands are a UNESCO World Heritage site and are known for their unique biodiversity and natural beauty.
Mother Church
The mother church of the apostolic vicariate is the St. Christopher Cathedral in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, which serves as the seat of the bishop.
Leadership
Current Bishop
Bishop Eugenio Arellano Fernández has served as the apostolic vicar since 2023. He is a Ecuadorian priest who has worked in various pastoral roles in the country.
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adorato María Rossi | 1951-1958 | First apostolic vicar |
| Juan de Dios López de Victoria | 1958-1963 | |
| Hugolino Cerasuolo Stacey | 1963-1985 | |
| Serafín Luis Alberto Cartagena Ocaña | 1985-1999 | |
| Giuseppe Leanza | 2005-2011 | |
| Luis Gerardo Cabrera Herrera | 2011-2015 | |
| Eugenio Arellano Fernández | 2023-present | Current bishop |
Statistics
The Apostolic Vicariate of Galápagos covers an area of approximately 45,000 km² and serves a population of around 30,000 people, with about 90% of them being Catholic. There are 6 parishes and 2 missions in the apostolic vicariate, with 4 priests serving the community.
Religious Communities
The apostolic vicariate has several religious communities, including the Salesians of Don Bosco and the Sisters of Charity.
Vocations
Vocations Contact for Apostolic Vicariate of Galápagos (Apostolic Vicariate) • Both
- Contact: Rev. Eugenio Arellano Fernández
- Notes: General vocations office
Parishes
| Apostolic Vicariate of Galápagos |
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| This map created from a Cargo query () |
The Apostolic Vicariate of Galápagos has 6 parishes and 2 missions, which are served by 4 priests.
Mission and Services
The apostolic vicariate has several mission-driven activities, including Catholic education and community outreach programs.
Theological and Cultural Orientation
The apostolic vicariate has a strong focus on conservation and environmental stewardship, reflecting its unique location in the Galápagos Islands.
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Apostolic Vicariate of Galápagos:
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Diocesan photos
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References
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Galápagos". https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/diocese/dgalp.html. Retrieved 2023-09-01.