Apostolic Vicariate of Leticia
The Diocese of Apostolic Vicariate of Leticia, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active apostolic vicariate encompassing the Amazonas Department in Colombia. Founded in 1951 by Pope Pius XII, it is led by Bishop José Luis Henao Cadavid as of 2023. As part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Bogotá, the apostolic vicariate serves a diverse community in the Amazon rainforest, with 13 parishes and 2 missions. A notable aspect is its vibrant cultural heritage, reflecting the region's indigenous and colonial history, with over 70,000 Catholics.
Stored in Cargo: Apostolic Vicariate of Leticia
| Diocese: Apostolic Vicariate of Leticia | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Apostolic Vicariate |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Ecclesiastical Province of Bogotá |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Bogotá |
| Country: | Colombia |
| Region: | Amazonas Department |
| Bishop: | José Luis Henao Cadavid |
| Priests: | 15 |
| Existence: | 1951– |
| Chancery Address: | Leticia, Amazonas, Colombia |
Establishment
The Apostolic Vicariate of Leticia was established on February 8, 1951, by Pope Pius XII to serve the growing Catholic population in the Amazonas Department, splitting from the Diocese of Arauca.[1]
History
The apostolic vicariate has a rich history, with its first bishop, Angelo Cuniberti, playing a significant role in the region's evangelization. The vicariate has undergone several changes, including the creation of new parishes and the establishment of a cathedral.[2]
Geography
The apostolic vicariate spans the entire Amazonas Department, including the municipalities of Leticia, Puerto Nariño, and Tarapacá. It is part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Bogotá.[3]
Mother Church
The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption in Leticia serves as the apostolic vicariate's mother church, a beautiful structure built in the 20th century.[4]
Leadership
Current Bishop
Bishop José Luis Henao Cadavid has served since 2023. A former priest in the Archdiocese of Bogotá, he focuses on evangelization and social outreach.[5]
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Angelo Cuniberti | 1951–1961 | First bishop of the apostolic vicariate. |
| José Luis Serna Alzate | 1961–1974 | Served during a period of significant growth. |
| Alberto Giraldo Jaramillo | 1974–1983 | Focused on social justice and education. |
| Jorge Ardila Serrano | 1983–2007 | Led the apostolic vicariate during a time of significant change. |
| José Luis Henao Cadavid | 2023–present | Current bishop, focusing on evangelization and social outreach. |
According to Catholic-Hierarchy.org and apostolic vicariate records.[6]
Statistics
The apostolic vicariate covers an area of approximately 109,665 square kilometers, serving a population of around 70,000 Catholics across 13 parishes and 2 missions.[7]
Religious Communities
Jesuits
The Jesuits operate in the apostolic vicariate, supporting parish ministries and education. Address: Leticia, Amazonas, Colombia.[8] Jesuits
Vocations
Vocations Contact for Apostolic Vicariate of Leticia (Apostolic Vicariate) • Both
- Contact: Rev. José Luis Henao Cadavid
- Email: vocations@apostolicvicariateleticia.org
- Phone: (57) 8 592 3333
- Website: Official Vocations Page
- Notes: General vocations office
- Last Verified: May 22, 2026
Parishes
| Apostolic Vicariate of Leticia |
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| This map created from a Cargo query () |
The Apostolic Vicariate of Leticia, covering the Amazonas Department, is a vibrant apostolic vicariate established in 1951 within the Latin Rite. It serves diverse communities through 13 parishes across 2 missions, with a central cathedral and various churches offering spiritual and communal support. The apostolic vicariate includes a rich cultural heritage, reflecting its indigenous and colonial history.[9]
Mission and Services
Catholic Education
The apostolic vicariate manages several schools, including:
| School Name | City | Type | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colegio María Inmaculada | Leticia | Elementary School | Colegio María Inmaculada[10] |
Community Outreach
The apostolic vicariate provides community service programs, including healthcare and social outreach, through its partnership with Catholic Charities.[11]
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Apostolic Vicariate of Leticia:
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Associated saints
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Diocesan photos
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References
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Leticia". https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/diocese/dleti.html. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Leticia". https://www.gcatholic.org/dioceses/vicariate/a065.htm. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Leticia". https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/diocese/dleti.html. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Leticia". https://www.gcatholic.org/dioceses/vicariate/a065.htm. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Leticia". https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/diocese/dleti.html. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Leticia". https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/diocese/dleti.html. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Leticia". https://www.gcatholic.org/dioceses/vicariate/a065.htm. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
- ↑ "Jesuits". https://www.jesuits.org/. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Leticia". https://www.gcatholic.org/dioceses/vicariate/a065.htm. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
- ↑ "Colegio María Inmaculada". https://www.colegiomariainmaculada.edu.co/. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
- ↑ "Catholic Charities Colombia". https://www.caritascolombiana.org/. Retrieved 2026-05-05.