Archdiocese of Mobile
The Archdiocese of Mobile (Latin: Archidioecesis Mobiliensis), an archdiocese of the Latin Rite, is an active metropolitan see encompassing the lower 28 counties of southern Alabama in the United States. Established as the Vicariate Apostolic of Alabama and the Floridas in 1825 and erected as the Diocese of Mobile on May 15, 1829, by Pope Pius VIII's predecessor, it was elevated to an archdiocese on November 16, 1980. It is led by Archbishop Mark S. Rivituso since his installation on September 3, 2025. As the metropolitan see of the Ecclesiastical Province of Mobile, it serves a Catholic community in a historically missionary territory with deep roots tracing to 1703.
Stored in Cargo: Archdiocese of Mobile
| Diocese: Archdiocese of Mobile | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Archdiocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Mobile |
| Suffragan Dioceses: | Diocese of Biloxi; Diocese of Birmingham in Alabama; Diocese of Jackson |
| Country: | United States |
| Region: | Alabama |
| Bishop: | Mark S. Rivituso |
| Website: | https://mobarch.org/ |
| Catholic %: | 5.8% |
| Elementary Schools: | 13 |
| High Schools: | 3 |
| Priests: | 111 (approx.) |
| Existence: | 1829– |
| Predecessor Dioceses: | Diocese of Mobile-Birmingham |
| Rating: | 3.4 |
| Chancery Address: | 400 Government St. Mobile, AL 36602 |
Establishment
The Archdiocese of Mobile traces its origins to the Vicariate Apostolic of Alabama and the Floridas, established in 1825. It was erected as the Diocese of Mobile on May 15, 1829, with Bishop Michael Portier as its first bishop. The territory originally included all of Alabama and Florida.
History
Catholic presence in the region dates to French and Spanish settlements, with the first parish established in Mobile in 1703. The diocese underwent several territorial changes, including the creation of the Diocese of Mobile-Birmingham in 1954 and its division in 1969. It was elevated to an archdiocese in 1980. The archdiocese has grown through immigration, military bases, and missionary efforts.
Geography
The archdiocese covers the lower 28 counties of Alabama, spanning 22,969 square miles (approximately 59,467 km²). It is part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Mobile.
Mother Church
The Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Mobile, a historic structure dedicated in 1850, serves as the mother church of the archdiocese.
Leadership
Current Archbishop
Most Reverend Mark S. Rivituso has served as Archbishop since his installation on September 3, 2025. A native of St. Louis and former auxiliary bishop there, he brings experience in education and pastoral ministry.
Past Archbishops and Bishops
Details of previous bishops are available on the official diocesan site.
Theological and Cultural Orientation
The Archdiocese of Mobile maintains a balanced orientation (rating 3.4). It upholds Latin Rite liturgical practices while supporting missionary evangelization and traditional elements of Catholic life in the region.
Statistics
The archdiocese covers 22,969 square miles and serves approximately 113,767 registered Catholics (about 5.8% of the total population) across 76 parishes and 7 missions.
Religious Communities
Various religious orders, including the Jesuits at Spring Hill College, serve in education and other ministries.
Parishes
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| This map created from a Cargo query () |
The Archdiocese of Mobile serves the faithful through 76 parishes and 7 missions across its territory.
Mission and Services
Catholic Education
The archdiocese supports 13 elementary schools, 3 high schools, and Spring Hill College, enrolling thousands of students.
Community Outreach
Catholic Social Services provides assistance throughout the archdiocese.
Notable Events or Figures
The archdiocese is home to the historic Cathedral Basilica and continues the legacy of early missionaries in the Gulf Coast region.
Associated Saints
No saints yet.
Fun Facts
Below are some fun facts about the Archdiocese of Mobile:
- Did you know? The first Catholic parish on the Gulf Coast was established in Mobile in 1703 — making the roots of the archdiocese among the oldest in the present-day United States!
- Surprise! The Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, dedicated in 1850, stands as a magnificent historic landmark and the mother church of the archdiocese.
- Fun fact: Spring Hill College, founded in 1830 and administered by the Jesuits, is Alabama’s oldest institution of higher learning and continues to form leaders in faith and service.
- Here's something cool: The archdiocese covers the lower 28 counties of Alabama, embracing diverse communities from the Gulf shores to inland areas.
- Wow moment: Catholicism arrived with early French and Spanish explorers, giving the region a rich colonial Catholic heritage.
- Little-known gem: The archdiocese continues to grow with new Catholic families and vibrant ministries responding to the needs of the faithful in the South.
- Fun twist: Despite being in the Bible Belt, the archdiocese maintains a strong missionary spirit, serving Catholics across a large territory with dedication and joy.
These highlights reflect the rich heritage and living faith of the archdiocese. Today, the Catholic community continues to witness to the Gospel through worship, education, and service in southern Alabama. Visit the historic Cathedral Basilica or a local parish soon to experience this legacy firsthand!
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Associated Saints
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Diocesan photos
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