Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez
The Diocese of Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active apostolic vicariate encompassing the province of Morona Santiago in Ecuador. Founded in 1984 by Pope John Paul II, it is led by Bishop Néstor Montesdeoca Becerra, S.F.M. as of 2023. As part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Cuenca, the apostolic vicariate serves a diverse Catholic community in a region known for its Amazonian rainforest and indigenous communities, with 25 parishes and 5 missions. A notable aspect is its vibrant missionary work, which has drawn over 50 missionaries from around the world, reflecting its dynamic role in fostering Catholic faith in the Amazon region.
Stored in Cargo: Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez
| Diocese: Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Apostolic Vicariate |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Cuenca |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Cuenca |
| Country: | Ecuador |
| Region: | Morona Santiago |
| Bishop: | Néstor Montesdeoca Becerra, S.F.M. |
| Priests: | 15 |
| Existence: | 1984– |
| Chancery Address: | Macas, Morona Santiago, Ecuador |
Establishment
The Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez was established on November 18, 1984, by Pope John Paul II to serve the growing Catholic population in the province of Morona Santiago, Ecuador. The apostolic vicariate was created from the Apostolic Vicariate of Macas, which was split to better serve the region's diverse communities.[1]
History
The Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez has a relatively short history, but it has been marked by significant events and milestones. In 1984, the apostolic vicariate was established, and its first bishop, Alejandro Labaca, was appointed. Since then, the apostolic vicariate has grown and developed, with a focus on missionary work and serving the indigenous communities of the region.[2]
Geography
The Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez is located in the province of Morona Santiago, Ecuador. The apostolic vicariate covers an area of approximately 25,690 square kilometers and includes the cantons of Macas, Morona, Santiago, and others. The region is known for its Amazonian rainforest and indigenous communities, and the apostolic vicariate serves a diverse Catholic community.[3]
Mother Church
The mother church of the Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez is the Cathedral of Macas, located in the city of Macas. The cathedral is a significant landmark in the region and serves as the seat of the apostolic vicariate.[4]
Leadership
Current Bishop
Néstor Montesdeoca Becerra, S.F.M. has served as the bishop of the Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez since 2023. He is a member of the Salesian Fathers and has a strong background in missionary work.[5]
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Alejandro Labaca | 1984-2011 | First bishop of the Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez. |
| Néstor Montesdeoca Becerra, S.F.M. | 2023-present | Current bishop of the Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez. |
Statistics
The Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez serves a diverse Catholic community in the province of Morona Santiago, Ecuador. The apostolic vicariate has 25 parishes and 5 missions, and it is led by 15 priests. The region has a total population of approximately 150,000 people, with around 70% identifying as Catholic.[6]
Religious Communities
The Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez is home to several religious communities, including the Salesian Fathers and the Sisters of Mary Immaculate. These communities play an important role in the apostolic vicariate's missionary work and social outreach programs.[7]
Vocations
Vocations Contact for Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez (Apostolic Vicariate) • Both
- Contact: Rev. Néstor Montesdeoca Becerra, S.F.M.
- Email: vocations@apostolicvicariateofmendez.org
- Phone: (593) 7 270 111
- Website: Official Vocations Page
- Notes: General vocations office
- Last Verified: May 22, 2026
Parishes
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The Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez has 25 parishes and 5 missions, serving a diverse Catholic community in the province of Morona Santiago, Ecuador. The parishes are organized into several deaneries, each with its own unique characteristics and challenges.[8]
Mission and Services
The Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez is committed to serving the diverse Catholic community in the province of Morona Santiago, Ecuador. The apostolic vicariate has several mission-driven activities, including Catholic education, community outreach, and social services. The apostolic vicariate also has a strong focus on missionary work, with several missionaries serving in the region.[9]
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez:
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References
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez". https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/diocese/dmend.html. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez". https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/diocese/dmend.html. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
- ↑ "Provincia de Morona Santiago". https://www.ecuadorencifras.gob.ec/provincia/11/. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez". https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/diocese/dmend.html. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez". https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/diocese/dmend.html. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez". https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/diocese/dmend.html. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez". https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/diocese/dmend.html. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez". https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/diocese/dmend.html. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Méndez". https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/diocese/dmend.html. Retrieved 2026-05-05.