Diocese of Ciudad Guayana
The Diocese of Ciudad Guayana, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active diocese located in the Venezuelan state of Bolivar. Founded in 1953 by Pope Pius XII, it is led by Bishop Juan Carlos Bravo Salazar as of 2023. As part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Ciudad Bolivar, the diocese serves a diverse community in a region known for its rich natural resources and cultural heritage, with 24 parishes and 2 missions. A notable aspect is its vibrant Catholic presence, reflected in the annual Feast of the Immaculate Conception, which draws thousands of participants.
Stored in Cargo: Diocese of Ciudad Guayana
| Diocese: Diocese of Ciudad Guayana | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Suffragan diocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Ciudad Bolivar |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Ciudad Bolivar |
| Country: | Venezuela |
| Region: | Bolivar |
| Bishop: | Juan Carlos Bravo Salazar |
| Deaneries: | 4 |
| Priests: | 30 |
| Existence: | 1953– |
| Predecessor Dioceses: | Diocese of Ciudad Bolivar |
Establishment
The Diocese of Ciudad Guayana was established on July 20, 1953, by Pope Pius XII to serve the growing Catholic population in the Venezuelan state of Bolivar, splitting from the Diocese of Ciudad Bolivar.[1]
History
The diocese has a relatively recent history, with its establishment in the mid-20th century. Since then, it has grown to encompass a diverse community in the region, with a focus on social outreach and pastoral care. The diocese has been led by several bishops, each contributing to its development and growth.
Geography
The diocese spans the entire state of Bolivar, including the cities of Ciudad Guayana, Ciudad Bolivar, and others. It is part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Ciudad Bolivar.[2]
Mother Church
The diocese's mother church is the Cathedral of Ciudad Guayana, a modern structure built in the 20th century. The cathedral serves as the seat of the bishop and a symbol of the diocese's presence in the region.[3]
Leadership
Current Bishop
Bishop Juan Carlos Bravo Salazar has served as the bishop of Ciudad Guayana since 2023. A native of Venezuela, he has a strong background in pastoral care and social outreach.[4]
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Juan Carlos Bravo Salazar | 2023–present | Current Bishop |
| Helizandro Terán Bermúdez | 2017–2023 | Transferred to Archdiocese of Mérida |
| Juan María Leonardi Villasmil | 2015–2017 | Retired |
According to Catholic-Hierarchy.org and diocesan records.[5]
Theological and Cultural Orientation
The diocese leans towards a balanced approach (rating: 3.0), offering a mix of traditional and contemporary liturgical practices, emphasizing social outreach alongside traditional teachings, and led by a bishop with a neutral stance.[6]
Statistics
The diocese covers an area of approximately 46,166 square miles (119,548 km²), serves a population of around 1.2 million people, with 750,000 registered Catholics across 24 parishes, and has a total population of 1.5 million.[7]
Religious Communities
Jesuits
The Jesuits operate a school and support parish ministries in the diocese. Address: .[8] [ Jesuits]
Vocations
Parishes
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The Diocese of Ciudad Guayana, covering the state of Bolivar, is a vibrant diocese established in 1953 within the Latin Rite. It serves diverse communities through 24 parishes across 4 deaneries, with a central cathedral and various churches offering spiritual and communal support. The diocese includes a mix of urban and rural parishes, reflecting its rich cultural heritage.[9]
Mission and Services
Catholic Education
The diocese manages several schools:
| School Name | City | Type | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
Community Outreach
Catholic Charities provides various services to the community, including food banks, healthcare, and education programs.[10]
Notable Events or Figures
- In 2017, the diocese celebrated its 64th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its history.[11]
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Diocese of Ciudad Guayana:
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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]