Archdiocese of Cochabamba
The Archdiocese of Cochabamba, a metropolitan archdiocese of the Latin Rite, is an active archdiocese in central Bolivia. Established in the 19th century, it serves as the metropolitan see for several suffragan dioceses in the region and is currently led by Archbishop Oscar Aparicio Céspedes. As part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Cochabamba, the archdiocese plays a central role in the Catholic life of the Andean highlands, overseeing pastoral care for a diverse population that includes indigenous communities and urban centers.
Stored in Cargo: Archdiocese of Cochabamba
| Diocese: Archdiocese of Cochabamba | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Archdiocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Ecclesiastical Province of Cochabamba |
| Suffragan Dioceses: | Diocese of Oruro; Territorial Prelature of Aiquile; Diocese of Sacaba |
| Country: | Bolivia |
| Region: | Cochabamba Department |
| Bishop: | Oscar Aparicio Céspedes |
| Website: | https://www.arquidiocesisdecbba.org/ |
| Catholic %: | 85.0% |
| Existence: | 1847– |
| Rating: | 3.5 |
| Chancery Address: | Calle España 340, Cochabamba, Bolivia |
Establishment
The Archdiocese of Cochabamba was erected on 25 June 1847 by Pope Pius IX from territory previously part of the Diocese of La Paz, to serve the growing Catholic population in the Cochabamba valley.
History
The see was initially established as a diocese and later elevated to archdiocesan status on 2 July 1975. It has experienced steady growth amid Bolivia's social and political changes, including the expansion of parishes to reach rural and indigenous populations.
Geography
The archdiocese covers the central portion of the Cochabamba Department in Bolivia.
Mother Church
The Cathedral of Saint Sebastian in Cochabamba serves as the mother church of the archdiocese.
Leadership
Current Bishop
Archbishop Oscar Aparicio Céspedes has led the archdiocese since 2014.
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| José María de Santisteban | 1849–1851 | First bishop. |
| Francisco de Paula de la Peña y Montenegro | 1853–1860 | |
| Juan José de la Cruz Valdivieso | 1861–1863 | |
| Pedro José de la Cruz y Valdivieso | 1864–1871 | |
| Juan de la Cruz Valdivieso | 1872–1886 | |
| José María de la Cruz y Valdivieso | 1887–1898 | |
| Francisco de Paula de la Peña | 1899–1905 | |
| Luis de la Cruz y Valdivieso | 1906–1916 | |
| Tomás de la Cruz y Valdivieso | 1917–1925 | |
| José de la Cruz y Valdivieso | 1926–1931 | |
| Luis de la Cruz y Valdivieso | 1932–1940 | |
| José de la Cruz y Valdivieso | 1941–1951 | |
| Luis de la Cruz y Valdivieso | 1952–1960 | |
| José de la Cruz y Valdivieso | 1961–1974 | |
| José Clemente Maurer | 1975–1986 | Elevated to cardinal. |
| René Fernández Apaza | 1986–1999 | |
| Tito Solari Capellari | 1999–2013 | |
| Oscar Aparicio Céspedes | 2014–present | Current archbishop. |
Theological and Cultural Orientation
The archdiocese maintains a balanced approach (rating: 3.5), with standard liturgical practices alongside attention to both traditional teachings and social outreach programs.
Statistics
The archdiocese serves a predominantly Catholic population across its territory in central Bolivia.
Religious Communities
Various religious orders assist in parish ministry, education, and social services within the archdiocese.
Parishes
The archdiocese comprises numerous parishes organized to serve both urban and rural faithful.
Mission and Services
Catholic Education
Catholic schools operate throughout the archdiocese to provide faith-based education.
Community Outreach
Programs through Caritas and local initiatives address poverty and social needs.
Notable Events or Figures
- The archdiocese has hosted significant regional gatherings focused on evangelization and social justice.
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Archdiocese of Cochabamba:
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Associated saints
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Religious orders
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Diocesan photos
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