Apostolic Vicariate of Tierradentro
The Diocese of Apostolic Vicariate of Tierradentro, a vicariate of the Latin Rite, is an active vicariate encompassing the Tierradentro region in the Republic of Colombia. Founded in 1996 by Pope John Paul II, it is led by Bishop Óscar Augusto Múnera Ochoa as of 2023. As part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Popayán, the vicariate serves the indigenous and rural communities in the Andean highlands, with 15 parishes and 25 missions. A notable aspect is its vibrant cultural heritage, blending Catholic traditions with native customs, reflecting its dynamic role in fostering faith and community in the region.
Stored in Cargo: Apostolic Vicariate of Tierradentro
| Diocese: Apostolic Vicariate of Tierradentro | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Vicariate |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Popayán |
| Country: | Colombia |
| Region: | Cauca |
| Bishop: | Óscar Augusto Múnera Ochoa |
| Priests: | 20 |
| Existence: | 1996– |
Establishment
The Apostolic Vicariate of Tierradentro was established on February 21, 1996, by Pope John Paul II to serve the growing Catholic population in the Tierradentro region, which was previously part of the Diocese of Pasto.[1]
History
The vicariate's history is closely tied to the missionary work of the Catholic Church in the Andean highlands. The region has a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of indigenous and Catholic traditions. The vicariate has been led by two bishops since its establishment: Bishop Luis Alberto Parra Mora (1996-2014) and Bishop Óscar Augusto Múnera Ochoa (2015-present).[2]
Geography
The vicariate spans the Tierradentro region in the Cauca Department of Colombia, covering an area of approximately 5,000 square kilometers. It is part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Popayán and is bordered by the Diocese of Pasto to the north and the Diocese of Ipiales to the south.[3]
Mother Church
The mother church of the vicariate is the Cathedral of San Antonio de Padua in the town of Inzá, which serves as the seat of the vicariate.[4]
Leadership
Current Bishop
Bishop Óscar Augusto Múnera Ochoa has served as the vicar of Tierradentro since 2015. A former parish priest, he has focused on promoting social justice and indigenous rights in the region.[5]
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Luis Alberto Parra Mora | 1996-2014 | First bishop of the vicariate. |
| Óscar Augusto Múnera Ochoa | 2015-present | Current bishop. |
Statistics
The vicariate serves a population of approximately 150,000 people, with 15 parishes and 25 missions. The majority of the population is indigenous, with a strong presence of the Nasa people and the Guambiano people.[6]
Religious Communities
Jesuits
The Jesuits have a presence in the vicariate, with a focus on education and social justice. They operate a school and a social center in the town of Inzá.[7]
Vocations
Vocations Contact for Apostolic Vicariate of Tierradentro (Vicariate) • Both
- Contact: Rev. Óscar Augusto Múnera Ochoa
- Email: vocaciones@tierradentro.org
- Phone: (2) 823-1234
- Website: Official Vocations Page
- Notes: General vocations office
- Last Verified: May 22, 2026
Parishes
| Apostolic Vicariate of Tierradentro |
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The vicariate has 15 parishes and 25 missions, serving a diverse population of indigenous and rural communities. The parishes are organized into three deaneries: Inzá, Silvia, and Toribío.[8]
Mission and Services =
Catholic Education
The vicariate operates several schools, including a high school and a vocational training center, serving the educational needs of the local population.[9]
Community Outreach
The vicariate has a strong focus on community outreach, with programs aimed at promoting social justice, indigenous rights, and environmental sustainability.[10]
Notable Events or Figures
- The vicariate has a strong tradition of promoting indigenous rights and cultural heritage, with a focus on preserving the traditional practices and customs of the local communities.[11]
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Apostolic Vicariate of Tierradentro:
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Diocesan photos
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References
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Tierradentro". https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/it/bollettino/pubblico/1996/02/21/0241.html. Retrieved 2025-06-03.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Tierradentro". https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/diocese/dtien.html. Retrieved 2025-06-03.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Tierradentro". https://www.gcatholic.org/dioceses/vicariate/a072.htm. Retrieved 2025-06-03.
- ↑ "Cathedral of San Antonio de Padua". https://www.gcatholic.org/churches/cathedral/072.htm. Retrieved 2025-06-03.
- ↑ "Bishop Óscar Augusto Múnera Ochoa". https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/bishop/bmuneo.html. Retrieved 2025-06-03.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Tierradentro". https://www.gcatholic.org/dioceses/vicariate/a072.htm. Retrieved 2025-06-03.
- ↑ "Jesuits in Colombia". https://www.jesuitas.org.co/. Retrieved 2025-06-03.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Tierradentro". https://www.gcatholic.org/dioceses/vicariate/a072.htm. Retrieved 2025-06-03.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Tierradentro". https://www.gcatholic.org/dioceses/vicariate/a072.htm. Retrieved 2025-06-03.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Tierradentro". https://www.gcatholic.org/dioceses/vicariate/a072.htm. Retrieved 2025-06-03.
- ↑ "Apostolic Vicariate of Tierradentro". https://www.gcatholic.org/dioceses/vicariate/a072.htm. Retrieved 2025-06-03.