Diocese of David
The Diocese of David, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active diocese encompassing the western provinces of Panama in the United States. Founded in 1955 by Pope Pius XII, it is led by Bishop Luis Enrique Saldaña Guerra as of 2023. As part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Panama, the diocese serves a growing Catholic community in a region with deep missionary roots, with numerous parishes and missions. A notable aspect is its role in fostering Catholic faith among indigenous and rural populations in the Chiriquí and surrounding areas.
Stored in Cargo: Diocese of David
| Diocese: Diocese of David | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Suffragan diocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Panama |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Panama |
| Country: | Panama |
| Region: | Chiriquí, Veraguas, Bocas del Toro |
| Bishop: | Luis Enrique Saldaña Guerra |
| Website: | https://diocesisdedavid.org/ |
| Existence: | 1955– |
| Rating: | 3.5 |
| Chancery Address: | David, Panama |
Establishment
The Diocese of David was established on 24 April 1955 by Pope Pius XII to serve the growing Catholic population in western Panama, separating territory from the Archdiocese of Panama.
History
Early Years
The diocese was created amid post-World War II expansion of the Church in Central America, with initial focus on rural evangelization and education.
Modern Era
Subsequent boundary adjustments and pastoral initiatives have strengthened its presence in indigenous communities and coastal regions.
Geography
The diocese covers the provinces of Chiriquí, Veraguas, and Bocas del Toro in western Panama. It forms part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Panama.
Mother Church
The Cathedral of San José in David serves as the diocese’s mother church, a central site for worship and diocesan events.
Leadership
Current Bishop
Bishop Luis Enrique Saldaña Guerra has served since 2023. He previously served in pastoral roles within the diocese.
Auxiliary Bishops
No auxiliary bishops are currently appointed.
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Francis Joseph Burns | 1956–1965 | First Bishop of David; established foundational structures. |
| Daniel Enrique Núñez Núñez | 1965–1997 | Long-serving bishop focused on local development. |
| José Luis Lacunza Maestrojuán | 1999–2023 | Promoted social outreach and vocations. |
| Luis Enrique Saldaña Guerra | 2023–present | Current Bishop. |
Theological and Cultural Orientation
The diocese maintains a balanced approach (rating: 3.5), with standard liturgical practices alongside emphasis on both traditional teachings and community outreach programs.
Statistics
The diocese serves registered Catholics across multiple parishes in its territory.
Religious Communities
Religious orders active in the diocese support education, healthcare, and parish ministry.
Parishes
The diocese includes parishes organized across its geographic area.
Mission and Services
Catholic Education
The diocese oversees Catholic schools providing education in the region.
Community Outreach
Programs through Catholic Charities and local initiatives address social needs in rural and indigenous communities.
Notable Events or Figures
- The diocese has hosted regional pastoral gatherings strengthening faith in western Panama.
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Diocese of David:
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Associated saints
No saints yet.
Religious orders
No religious orderes categorized yet.
Diocesan photos
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References
External Links
- Official website
- [Cathedral website]