Archdiocese of Mercedes-Luján
The Archdiocese of Mercedes-Luján, a metropolitan see of the Latin Rite, is an active archdiocese in Argentina. Erected as a diocese in 1934 by Pope Pius XI and elevated to archdiocese status in 1982, it serves as the metropolitan see for several suffragan dioceses in the region. It encompasses parts of Buenos Aires Province and plays a central role in the spiritual life of the faithful in western Greater Buenos Aires and surrounding areas. A notable aspect is its connection to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Luján, a major pilgrimage site drawing millions of visitors annually.
Stored in Cargo: Archdiocese of Mercedes-Luján
| Diocese: Archdiocese of Mercedes-Luján | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Archdiocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Mercedes-Luján |
| Suffragan Dioceses: | Diocese of Azul; Diocese of Azul; Diocese of Chascomús; Diocese of La Plata; Diocese of Mar del Plata; Diocese of Morón; Diocese of San Isidro; Diocese of San Nicolás de los Arroyos; Diocese of San Rafael; Diocese of Santa Rosa; Diocese of Zárate-Campana |
| Country: | Argentina |
| Region: | Buenos Aires Province |
| Bishop: | Jorge Eduardo Scheinig |
| Website: | https://www.arquimercedeslujan.org.ar/ |
| Existence: | 1934– |
| Rating: | 3.5 |
| Chancery Address: | Calle 29 N° 668, B6600 Mercedes, Buenos Aires, Argentina |
Establishment
The Archdiocese of Mercedes-Luján was established on 11 February 1934 by Pope Pius XI as the Diocese of Mercedes, carved from territory previously belonging to the Archdiocese of La Plata. It was elevated to the rank of archdiocese on 10 April 1982 by Pope John Paul II and renamed to reflect its dual sees.
History
Early Years
The see was created to serve the growing Catholic population in western Buenos Aires Province during a period of rapid urbanization and immigration.
Elevation to Archdiocese
In 1982 the diocese was raised to metropolitan status, assuming oversight of multiple suffragan dioceses across the province.
Geography
The archdiocese covers territory in Buenos Aires Province, including the cities of Mercedes and Luján and surrounding rural areas.
Mother Church
The Cathedral of Our Lady of Mercy in Mercedes serves as the principal church of the archdiocese, while the National Shrine of Our Lady of Luján functions as a major co-cathedral and pilgrimage center.
Leadership
Current Bishop
Jorge Eduardo Scheinig has served as Archbishop since 2019.
Auxiliary Bishops
No auxiliary bishops are currently assigned.
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tomás F. Molíns | 1934–1939 | First Bishop of Mercedes. |
| Anunciado Serafini | 1939–1956 | Oversaw post-war pastoral expansion. |
| Aníbal Eduardo Fosbery | 1956–1963 | Transferred to another see. |
| Luis María de Larrea y Legarreta | 1963–1970 | Later became Archbishop of La Plata. |
| José María Bueno y Monreal | 1970–1978 | Promoted to Cardinal. |
| Emilio Ogñénovich | 1978–1982 | Last Bishop; first Archbishop after elevation. |
| José María Arancibia | 1982–1991 | Oversaw transition to archdiocese. |
| Rubén Oscar Frassia | 1991–2000 | Focused on social outreach. |
| Agustín Roberto Radrizzani | 2000–2005 | Transferred to Bahía Blanca. |
| Carlos María Franzini | 2005–2012 | Emphasized evangelization. |
| Carlos María Domínguez | 2012–2018 | Retired. |
| Jorge Eduardo Scheinig | 2019–present | Current Archbishop. |
Theological and Cultural Orientation
The archdiocese maintains a balanced orientation (rating 3.5), with traditional liturgical practices alongside active social outreach programs.
Statistics
The archdiocese serves a large Catholic population across its territory in Buenos Aires Province.
Religious Communities
Several religious institutes serve in education and parish ministry.
Parishes
The archdiocese comprises numerous parishes centered around its two principal cities.
Mission and Services
Catholic Education
The archdiocese operates a network of Catholic schools throughout its territory.
Community Outreach
Programs coordinated through Caritas Argentina address local needs in poverty alleviation and family support.
Notable Events or Figures
- The National Shrine of Our Lady of Luján remains one of the most visited Marian shrines in Latin America.
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Archdiocese of Mercedes-Luján:
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Associated saints
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Religious orders
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Diocesan photos
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