Diocese of Ciudad del Este
The Diocese of Ciudad del Este, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active diocese encompassing the Alto Paraná Department in Paraguay. Founded in 1980 by Pope John Paul II, it is led by Bishop Heinz Wilhelm Steckling as of 2023. As part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Asunción, the diocese serves a growing Catholic community in a region known for its cultural diversity and economic growth, with 25 parishes and 15 missions. A notable aspect is its vibrant Catholic education system, which includes several schools and institutions, reflecting its dynamic role in fostering Catholic faith in the region.
Stored in Cargo: Diocese of Ciudad del Este
| Diocese: Diocese of Ciudad del Este | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Suffragan diocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Asunción |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Asunción |
| Country: | Paraguay |
| Region: | Alto Paraná |
| Bishop: | Heinz Wilhelm Steckling |
| Elementary Schools: | 10 |
| High Schools: | 5 |
| Deaneries: | 5 |
| Priests: | 50 |
| Existence: | 1980– |
| Predecessor Dioceses: | Diocese of Villarrica |
| Catholic Hospitals: | 2 |
Establishment
The Diocese of Ciudad del Este was established on April 10, 1980, by Pope John Paul II to serve the growing Catholic population in the Alto Paraná Department, splitting from the Diocese of Villarrica.[1]
History
The diocese has experienced significant growth since its establishment, with an increasing number of parishes, schools, and social institutions. The diocese has also been involved in various social and charitable activities, including education, healthcare, and community development.[2]
Geography
The diocese spans the Alto Paraná Department in Paraguay, including:
- Ciudad del Este
- Hernandarias
- Presidente Franco
- Minga Guazú
- Santa Rita
It is part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Asunción.[3]
Mother Church
The Catedral Jesús de Nazaret in Ciudad del Este serves as the diocese's mother church.[4]
Leadership
Current Bishop
Heinz Wilhelm Steckling has served as the bishop of the Diocese of Ciudad del Este since 2023.[5]
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oscar Páez Garcete | 1980–1993 | First Bishop of Ciudad del Este. |
| Ignacio Gogorza Izaguirre | 1993–2001 | Transferred to Diocese of Encarnación. |
| Rogelio Ricardo Livieres Plano | 2001–2014 | Removed from office. |
| Heinz Wilhelm Steckling | 2023–present | Current Bishop. |
According to Catholic-Hierarchy.org and diocesan records.[6]
Statistics
The diocese covers an area of approximately 12,886 square miles (33,401 km²), serves around 500,000 Catholics across 25 parishes, and has a total population of around 700,000.[7]
Religious communities
The diocese is home to several religious communities, including:
Jesuits
The Jesuits operate a school and support parish ministries in the diocese.[8]
Vocations
Parishes
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The Diocese of Ciudad del Este has 25 parishes across 5 deaneries, serving a diverse community with various cultural and social activities.[9]
Mission and services
Catholic Education
The diocese manages several schools, including:
| School Name | City | Type | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colegio Jesús de Nazaret | Ciudad del Este | High School |
Community Outreach
The diocese provides various community services, including healthcare and social support programs.[10]
Notable Events or Figures
- The diocese has been involved in several notable events, including the visit of Pope John Paul II in 1988.[11]
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Diocese of Ciudad del Este:
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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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