Archdiocese of Santo Domingo
The Diocese of Archdiocese of Santo Domingo, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active diocese encompassing the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean. Founded in 1511 by papal authority, it serves as the metropolitan see of the Ecclesiastical Province of Santo Domingo and holds the distinction of being the oldest diocese in the Americas. Led by Archbishop Francisco Ozoria Acosta since 2016, the archdiocese plays a central role in preserving Catholic heritage across the region while ministering to a predominantly Catholic population.
Stored in Cargo: Archdiocese of Santo Domingo
| Diocese: Archdiocese of Santo Domingo | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Archdiocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Santo Domingo |
| Suffragan Dioceses: | Diocese of Baní; Diocese of Barahona; Diocese of San Juan de la Maguana; Diocese of San Pedro de Macorís; Military Ordinariate of the Dominican Republic |
| Country: | Dominican Republic |
| Region: | National District and surrounding provinces |
| Bishop: | Francisco Ozoria Acosta |
| Website: | https://www.arquidiocesisantodomingo.org/ |
| Catholic %: | 70.0% |
| Existence: | 1511– |
| Rating: | 4.0 |
| Chancery Address: | Calle Arzobispo Nouel 55, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic |
Establishment
The Archdiocese of Santo Domingo was erected on 8 August 1511 by Pope Julius II as the Diocese of Santo Domingo, initially covering the island of Hispaniola. It was elevated to archdiocesan status in 1546.
History
Established during the early Spanish colonial period, the see became the first Catholic diocese in the New World. Its territory has undergone multiple divisions as new dioceses were created across the Caribbean and Latin America. The archdiocese has remained continuously active since its founding.
Geography
The archdiocese covers the southeastern portion of the Dominican Republic, including the National District and several surrounding provinces.
Mother Church
The Cathedral of Santa María la Menor in Santo Domingo serves as the mother church, recognized as the oldest cathedral in the Americas.
Leadership
Current Bishop
Archbishop Francisco Ozoria Acosta has led the archdiocese since his appointment in 2016.
Auxiliary Bishops
No auxiliary bishops are currently listed in primary records.
Past Bishops
A complete chronological list of ordinaries is available through Vatican and diocesan historical records.
Theological and Cultural Orientation
The archdiocese maintains a balanced to slightly conservative orientation, emphasizing traditional liturgical practices alongside pastoral outreach in a Caribbean context.
Statistics
The archdiocese serves a Catholic population estimated in the millions within its territory.
Religious Communities
Various religious orders have historically contributed to evangelization, education, and charitable works in the archdiocese.
Parishes
The archdiocese comprises numerous parishes organized under its metropolitan structure.
Mission and Services
Catholic Education
Catholic schools operate under the oversight of the archdiocese and religious congregations.
Community Outreach
Programs through Caritas and local initiatives address social needs in the region.
Notable Events or Figures
- The archdiocese hosted early evangelization efforts that shaped Catholicism throughout the Americas.
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Archdiocese of Santo Domingo:
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Associated saints
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Religious orders
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Diocesan photos
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