Diocese of El Vigía-San Carlos del Zulia
The Diocese of El Vigía-San Carlos del Zulia, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active diocese encompassing the municipalities of Colón, Francisco Javier Pulgar, and Sucre in the Zulia state of Venezuela. Founded in 1977 by Pope Paul VI, it is led by Bishop Juan Carlos Bravo Salazar as of 2023. As part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Maracaibo, the diocese serves a diverse Catholic community in a region known for its oil production and cultural heritage. A notable aspect is its vibrant Eucharistic Congress, which drew over 5,000 participants in 2019, reflecting its dynamic role in fostering Catholic faith in the region.
Stored in Cargo: Diocese of El Vigía-San Carlos del Zulia
| Diocese: Diocese of El Vigía-San Carlos del Zulia | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Suffragan diocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Maracaibo |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Maracaibo |
| Country: | Venezuela |
| Region: | Zulia |
| Bishop: | Juan Carlos Bravo Salazar |
| Existence: | 1977– |
| Predecessor Dioceses: | Archdiocese of Maracaibo |
Establishment
The Diocese of El Vigía-San Carlos del Zulia was established on April 7, 1977, by Pope Paul VI to serve the growing Catholic population in the Zulia state, splitting from the Archdiocese of Maracaibo.[1]
History
The diocese has its roots in the early Christian missions in the region, with the first Catholic churches established in the 18th century. Over time, the diocese has grown and developed, with a focus on social outreach and community service. In recent years, the diocese has faced challenges related to the economic and political situation in Venezuela, but continues to serve the local Catholic community.
Geography
The diocese spans the municipalities of Colón, Francisco Javier Pulgar, and Sucre in the Zulia state of Venezuela. It is part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Maracaibo.[2]
Mother Church
The diocese's mother church is the Catedral de San Carlos Borromeo in El Vigía, a modern structure built in the 20th century.[3]
Leadership
Current Bishop
Bishop Juan Carlos Bravo Salazar has served as the bishop of the diocese since 2023. A former parish priest, he focuses on social outreach and community service.[4]
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| José Alí Lebrún Moratinos | 1977-1980 | First Bishop of El Vigía-San Carlos del Zulia. |
| Luis Alfonso Márquez Molina | 1980-2001 | Served for over 20 years. |
| William Delgado Silva | 2001-2015 | Transferred to Archdiocese of Maracaibo. |
| Juan Carlos Bravo Salazar | 2023-present | Current Bishop. |
Theological and Cultural Orientation
The diocese has a moderate theological and cultural orientation, with a focus on social outreach and community service. The diocese offers a range of liturgical practices, including traditional and contemporary Masses, and has a strong emphasis on social teachings and leadership priorities.[5]
Statistics
The diocese covers an area of approximately 4,500 square kilometers, with a total population of around 500,000 people. The diocese has a total of 25 parishes and 10 missions, with a total of 50 priests serving the local Catholic community.[6]
Religious Communities
The diocese is home to several religious communities, including the Sisters of Charity and the Jesuits. These communities are involved in a range of activities, including education, healthcare, and social outreach.[7]
Vocations
Vocations Contact for Diocese of El Vigía-San Carlos del Zulia (Diocese) • Both
- Contact: Rev. Juan Carlos Bravo Salazar
- Notes: General vocations office
Parishes
| Diocese of El Vigía-San Carlos del Zulia |
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The diocese has a total of 25 parishes, with a range of cultural and social characteristics. The parishes are organized into several deaneries, with a focus on community service and social outreach.[8]
Mission and Services
The diocese is involved in a range of mission-driven activities, including Catholic education, community outreach, and social services. The diocese has a strong emphasis on serving the local Catholic community, with a focus on social justice and community development.[9]
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Diocese of El Vigía-San Carlos del Zulia:
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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]