Archdiocese of Santiago de Chile
The Archdiocese of Santiago de Chile, a metropolitan archdiocese of the Latin Rite, is an active archdiocese serving as the primatial see of the Catholic Church in Chile. Established in the 16th century, it oversees a vast territory in central Chile and forms the head of the Ecclesiastical Province of Santiago de Chile. Led by Archbishop Celestino Aós Braco since 2019, the archdiocese ministers to millions of faithful through numerous parishes, schools, and charitable works. Its historic role in evangelization and social outreach makes it a cornerstone of Catholicism in South America.
Stored in Cargo: Archdiocese of Santiago de Chile
| Diocese: Archdiocese of Santiago de Chile | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Archdiocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Ecclesiastical Province of Santiago de Chile |
| Suffragan Dioceses: | Diocese of Valparaíso; Diocese of Rancagua; Diocese of San Bernardo; Diocese of Melipilla; Diocese of San Felipe; Diocese of Los Ángeles; Diocese of Linares; Diocese of Talca; Diocese of Chillán; Diocese of Concepción; Diocese of Temuco; Diocese of Villarrica; Diocese of Valdivia; Diocese of Osorno; Diocese of Puerto Montt; Diocese of Punta Arenas |
| Country: | Chile |
| Region: | Santiago Metropolitan Region |
| Bishop: | Celestino Aós Braco |
| Website: | https://www.iglesiadesantiago.cl/ |
| Catholic %: | 60.0% |
| Existence: | 1561– |
| Rating: | 3.5 |
| Chancery Address: | Plaza de Armas 444 Santiago, Chile |
Establishment
The Archdiocese of Santiago de Chile was erected on 27 June 1561 by Pope Pius IV as the Diocese of Santiago de Chile. It was elevated to archdiocesan rank on 24 November 1840 by Pope Gregory XVI.
History
The see traces its origins to the early Spanish colonial period in Chile. It has undergone several boundary adjustments over the centuries as new dioceses were created from its territory. The archdiocese played a central role in the evangelization of the region and has been home to several notable Church leaders.
Geography
The archdiocese covers the Santiago Metropolitan Region and parts of adjacent areas in central Chile. It belongs to the Ecclesiastical Province of Santiago de Chile.
Mother Church
The Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago, located in the Plaza de Armas of Santiago, serves as the mother church. Construction of the current structure began in the 18th century in neoclassical style.
Leadership
Current Bishop
Celestino Aós Braco has served as Archbishop since 2019. A Capuchin friar, he previously served as Archbishop of Concepción.
Auxiliary Bishops
Several auxiliary bishops assist in the governance of the archdiocese.
Past Bishops
A complete chronological list of ordinaries is available through official Church records.
Theological and Cultural Orientation
The archdiocese maintains a balanced approach (rating: 3.5), with standard liturgical practices and emphasis on both traditional teachings and social outreach programs.
Statistics
The archdiocese serves a large Catholic population across its territory.
Religious Communities
Various religious orders and congregations serve in education, healthcare, and parish ministry within the archdiocese.
Parishes
The archdiocese comprises numerous parishes organized into deaneries.
Mission and Services
Catholic Education
The archdiocese operates an extensive network of Catholic schools.
Community Outreach
Catholic Charities and other programs provide social services throughout the region.
Notable Events or Figures
- The archdiocese has hosted significant ecclesial events, including visits by popes.
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Associated saints
No saints yet.
Religious orders
No religious orderes categorized yet.
Diocesan photos
No results
References
External Links
- Official website
- [Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago]