Apostolic Vicariate of Pando
Stored in Cargo: Apostolic Vicariate of Pando
| Diocese: Apostolic Vicariate of Pando | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Country: | Bolivia |
| Region: | Pando Department |
| Bishop: | Eugenio Coter |
| Existence: | 1942– |
| Chancery Address: | Riberalta, Bolivia |
The Diocese of Apostolic Vicariate of Pando, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active diocese in the Plurinational State of Bolivia. Established to serve the remote northern Amazonian region, it functions as a mission territory under the direct authority of the Holy See. The vicariate encompasses the entire Department of Pando and forms part of the broader missionary efforts of the Latin Church in South America. Its territory includes vast rainforest areas with a small but growing Catholic population.
Establishment
The Apostolic Vicariate of Pando was erected on 29 June 1942 by Pope Pius XII to provide pastoral care for the sparsely populated northern frontier of Bolivia.
History
The vicariate was created from territory previously part of the Apostolic Vicariate of El Beni. Its development has centered on missionary work among indigenous communities in the Amazon basin. Boundary adjustments have been minimal since its founding.
Geography
The vicariate covers the entire Pando Department in northern Bolivia, bordering Brazil and Peru. It lies within the Amazon rainforest region.
Mother Church
The principal church is the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption in Cobija.
Leadership
Current Bishop
Eugenio Coter has served as Vicar Apostolic since 2012.
Auxiliary Bishops
No auxiliary bishops are currently assigned.
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Juan Carlos Lanza | 1942–1953 | First Vicar Apostolic. |
| Juan José Aníbal del Carmen | 1953–1970 | Oversaw early missionary expansion. |
| Luis Morgan Casey | 1988–2005 | Later served as auxiliary bishop elsewhere. |
| Eugenio Coter | 2012–present | Current Vicar Apostolic. |
Statistics
The vicariate serves a small Catholic population across a large rural territory with limited parishes.
Religious Communities
Missionary congregations have historically supported evangelization efforts in the region.
Parishes
The vicariate maintains a modest number of parishes and mission stations.
Mission and Services
Catholic Education
Limited Catholic schools operate in the main population centers.
Community Outreach
Pastoral outreach focuses on indigenous communities and basic sacramental ministry.
Notable Events or Figures
- Missionary activity has emphasized inculturation among Amazonian peoples.
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Apostolic Vicariate of Pando:
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Associated saints
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Religious orders
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