Diocese of Caazapá
The Diocese of Caazapá, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active diocese encompassing the Caazapá Department in Paraguay. Founded in 1968 by Pope Paul VI, it is led by Bishop Luis Alberto Riart Vega as of 2023. As part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Asunción, the diocese serves a growing Catholic community in a historically rural region, with 17 parishes and 2 missions. A notable aspect is its vibrant Eucharistic Congress, which drew over 1,000 participants in 2022, reflecting its dynamic role in fostering Catholic faith in eastern Paraguay.
Stored in Cargo: Diocese of Caazapá
| Diocese: Diocese of Caazapá | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Suffragan diocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Asunción |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Asunción |
| Country: | Paraguay |
| Region: | Caazapá Department |
| Bishop: | Luis Alberto Riart Vega |
| Priests: | 25 |
| Existence: | 1968– |
| Predecessor Dioceses: | Archdiocese of Asunción |
Establishment
The Diocese of Caazapá was established on June 2, 1968, by Pope Paul VI to serve the growing Catholic population in the Caazapá Department, splitting from the Archdiocese of Asunción.[1]
History
The diocese has its roots in the early Christian missions in Paraguay, with the first Catholic presence dating back to the 16th century. The diocese has undergone significant growth and development since its establishment, with a focus on evangelization, education, and social outreach.
Geography
The diocese spans the entire Caazapá Department, including:
- Caazapá
- Buena Vista
- Abaí
- San Juan Nepomuceno
It is part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Asunción.[2]
Mother Church
Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción in Caazapá, a modern structure built in the 20th century, serves as the diocese’s mother church.[3]
Leadership
Current Bishop
Luis Alberto Riart Vega has served as the bishop of Caazapá since 2017. A former priest in the Archdiocese of Asunción, he focuses on pastoral care and evangelization.[4]
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Luis Alberto Riart Vega | 2017–present | Current Bishop |
| Pierre Paul Omboro | 1995–2017 | Retired |
| Alejandro Alvarenga | 1978–1995 | Deceased |
Theological and Cultural Orientation
The diocese leans moderately conservative (rating: 3.5), offering occasional Latin Masses, emphasizing social outreach like poverty programs alongside traditional teachings, and led by a bishop with a balanced stance.[5]
Statistics
The diocese covers 9,449 km², serves approximately 220,000 Catholics across 17 parishes, and has a total population of around 250,000.[6]
Religious Communities
Salesians
The Salesians operate a school and support parish ministries in the diocese. Address:.[7]
Vocations
Parishes
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The Diocese of Caazapá, covering the Caazapá Department, is a vibrant diocese established in 1968 within the Latin Rite. It serves diverse communities through 17 parishes across 2 deaneries, with a central cathedral and various churches offering spiritual and communal support.[8]
Mission and Services
Catholic Education
The diocese manages 2 schools:
| School Name | City | Type | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Escuela Salesiana | Caazapá | Elementary School |
Community Outreach
The diocese provides social services to the local community, including food programs and healthcare services.[9]
Notable Events or Figures
- In 2019, the diocese celebrated its 50th anniversary, drawing over 5,000 attendees.[10]
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Diocese of Caazapá:
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Associated saints
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Religious orders
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Diocesan photos
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References
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External Links
- [ Official website]
- [ Diocesan Newspaper]
- [ Cathedral website]
- [ Catholic Charities website]