Apostolic Vicariate of Reyes

The Diocese of Apostolic Vicariate of Reyes, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active diocese located in the Beni Department of Bolivia. Established in 1942 to serve mission territories in the Amazonian region, it functions under the direct authority of the Holy See. The vicariate encompasses rural and indigenous communities and is currently led by its apostolic vicar. It forms part of the broader missionary efforts of the Catholic Church in South America, with a focus on evangelization among local populations.

Stored in Cargo: Apostolic Vicariate of Reyes

Diocese: Apostolic Vicariate of Reyes
Status:	Active
Rite:	Latin
Type:	Apostolic Vicariate
Country:	Bolivia
Region:	Beni Department
Bishop:	Carlos Enrique Curiel Herrera
Existence:	1942–
Chancery Address:	Reyes, Beni, Bolivia

Establishment

The Apostolic Vicariate of Reyes was erected on 30 April 1942 by Pope Pius XII to provide pastoral care for the vast and sparsely populated areas of northern Bolivia previously under the jurisdiction of the Diocese of Santa Cruz de la Sierra.

History

The vicariate developed as a missionary territory focused on serving indigenous groups and settlers in the Beni region. Its boundaries have remained stable since establishment, with emphasis on building basic church infrastructure in remote areas.

Geography

The vicariate covers portions of the Beni Department in northern Bolivia, including the town of Reyes and surrounding Amazonian lowlands.

Mother Church

The principal church is the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption in Reyes.

Leadership

Current Bishop

Carlos Enrique Curiel Herrera, C.SS.R., has served as apostolic vicar since 2021.

Auxiliary Bishops

No auxiliary bishops are currently assigned.

Past Bishops

Name	Tenure	Notes
Augustin Bertholet, C.SS.R.	1946–1963	First apostolic vicar; focused on initial mission expansion.
Alfonso Nava, C.SS.R.	1963–1970	Oversaw continued development of parishes.
Roger Aubry, C.SS.R.	1970–1999	Long-serving vicar who strengthened local clergy formation.
Eugenio Coter	1999–2020	Emphasized indigenous pastoral work.
Carlos Enrique Curiel Herrera, C.SS.R.	2021–present	Current apostolic vicar.

Statistics

The vicariate serves a Catholic population across a large rural territory with limited parish infrastructure.

Religious Communities

The Redemptorists (C.SS.R.) have historically provided the majority of apostolic vicars and continue to staff key missions.

Parishes

The vicariate maintains a small number of parishes and mission stations serving dispersed communities.

Mission and Services

Catholic Education

Limited Catholic schools operate in the main population centers to support local families.

Community Outreach

Programs focus on basic healthcare, literacy, and agricultural support in remote villages.

Notable Events or Figures

• The vicariate has contributed to the preservation of local indigenous languages through liturgical translations.

Fun facts

Below are some fun facts about the Apostolic Vicariate of Reyes:

Did you know? The Apostolic Vicariate of Reyes was created in 1942 specifically to reach the remote Amazonian communities of northern Bolivia where regular diocesan structures had not yet been established.

Surprise! Redemptorist missionaries have led the vicariate for most of its history, bringing their distinctive emphasis on popular missions and devotion to Our Lady of Perpetual Help to the Beni region.

Here's something cool: The principal church in Reyes serves as both cathedral and community hub for a vast territory that includes many small riverine settlements accessible only by boat or small plane.

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Associated saints

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Religious orders

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Diocesan photos

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External Links

• Official Vatican entry on apostolic vicariates