Diocese of Barrancabermeja
The Diocese of Barrancabermeja, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active diocese encompassing the metropolitan area of Barrancabermeja in the Republic of Colombia. Founded in 1927 by Pope Pius XI, it is led by Bishop Ovidio Giraldo Velásquez as of 2023. As part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Nueva Pamplona, the diocese serves a diverse Catholic community in a region known for its oil production and industrial activities, with 34 parishes and 2 missions. A notable aspect is its vibrant cultural festivals, which draw thousands of participants annually, reflecting its dynamic role in fostering Catholic faith and community in northeastern Colombia.
Stored in Cargo: Diocese of Barrancabermeja
| Diocese: Diocese of Barrancabermeja | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Suffragan diocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Nueva Pamplona |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Nueva Pamplona |
| Country: | Colombia |
| Region: | Santander |
| Bishop: | Ovidio Giraldo Velásquez |
| Existence: | 1927– |
Establishment
The Diocese of Barrancabermeja was established on April 26, 1927, by Pope Pius XI to serve the growing Catholic population in the Santander region, splitting from the Diocese of Socorro.[1]
History
The diocese has a history of serving the local community through various social and educational programs. In recent years, the diocese has focused on promoting social justice and human rights in the region.
Geography
The diocese spans the metropolitan area of Barrancabermeja in the Santander department, including:
- Barrancabermeja
- Other municipalities
It is part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Nueva Pamplona.[2]
Mother Church
The Cathedral of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Barrancabermeja serves as the diocese's mother church.[3]
Leadership
Current Bishop
Ovidio Giraldo Velásquez has served as the bishop of the Diocese of Barrancabermeja since 2023.[4]
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Camilo Torres Restrepo | 1952–1965 | First bishop of the diocese. |
| Juan José García Arias | 1965–1974 | |
| Vicente Ramón Hernández Peña | 1974–1982 | |
| Darío Castrillón Hoyos | 1983–1992 | |
| Jaime Prieto Amaya | 1993–2009 | |
| Eulises José Cuadros Ochoa | 2010–2019 | |
| Ovidio Giraldo Velásquez | 2023–present | Current bishop. |
Theological and Cultural Orientation
The diocese has a moderate theological and cultural orientation, with a focus on social justice and human rights.
Statistics
The diocese covers an area of approximately 12,705 km², serves a population of around 420,000 people, and has a total of 34 parishes and 2 missions.[5]
Religious Communities
The diocese is home to several religious communities, including:
- Sisters of Charity
- Other communities
Vocations
Parishes
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| This map created from a Cargo query () |
The Diocese of Barrancabermeja has a total of 34 parishes and 2 missions, serving the metropolitan area of Barrancabermeja and surrounding municipalities.
Mission and Services
The diocese is involved in various mission-driven activities, including:
- Catholic education
- Community outreach
- Social justice programs
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Diocese of Barrancabermeja:
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Associated saints
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Religious orders
No religious orderes categorized yet.
Diocesan photos
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References
External Links
- [ Official website]
- [ Diocesan newspaper]
- [ Cathedral website]
- [ Catholic Charities website]