Diocese of Guaranda
The Diocese of Guaranda, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active diocese encompassing the province of Bolivar in Ecuador. Founded in 1957 by Pope Pius XII, it is led by Bishop Skiper Bladimir Yánez Calvachi as of 2023. As part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Quito, the diocese serves a diverse Catholic community in a region known for its rich cultural heritage, with 24 parishes and 12 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 the region.
Stored in Cargo: Diocese of Guaranda
| Diocese: Diocese of Guaranda | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Suffragan diocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Quito |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Quito |
| Country: | Ecuador |
| Region: | Bolivar |
| Bishop: | Skiper Bladimir Yánez Calvachi |
| Existence: | 1957– |
Establishment
The Diocese of Guaranda was established on January 29, 1957, by Pope Pius XII to serve the growing Catholic population in the province of Bolivar, Ecuador. The diocese was formed from the Archdiocese of Quito and has since been a suffragan diocese of the Ecclesiastical Province of Quito.
History
The history of the Diocese of Guaranda is closely tied to the history of the Catholic Church in Ecuador. The diocese has been led by several bishops, each contributing to the growth and development of the Catholic community in the region. The diocese has also been involved in various social and charitable activities, including education, healthcare, and community outreach.
Geography
The Diocese of Guaranda spans the entire province of Bolivar in Ecuador, covering an area of approximately 3,897 square kilometers. The diocese is situated in the central highlands of Ecuador and includes the cities of Guaranda, Echeandia, and San Miguel.
Mother Church
The Cathedral of Guaranda, located in the city of Guaranda, serves as the mother church of the diocese. The cathedral is a beautiful example of Ecuadorian architecture and is an important place of worship and pilgrimage for Catholics in the region.
Leadership
Current Bishop
Bishop Skiper Bladimir Yánez Calvachi has served as the bishop of the Diocese of Guaranda since 2023. He was appointed by Pope Francis and has been instrumental in promoting the Catholic faith and serving the community in the diocese.
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bishop Skiper Bladimir Yánez Calvachi | 2023–present | Current Bishop |
| Bishop Ángel Polivio Sánchez Loaiza | 2013–2023 | Retired |
| Bishop Rafael Hergueta | 2007–2013 | Transferred to Archdiocese of Cuenca |
Theological and Cultural Orientation
The Diocese of Guaranda is known for its strong Catholic traditions and cultural heritage. The diocese has a rich history of promoting the Catholic faith and serving the community, with a focus on social justice and outreach.
Statistics
The Diocese of Guaranda serves a population of approximately 200,000 Catholics, with 24 parishes and 12 missions. The diocese has a total area of 3,897 square kilometers and is home to several Catholic schools, hospitals, and charitable institutions.
Religious Communities
The Diocese of Guaranda is home to several religious communities, including the Salesians of Don Bosco and the Sisters of Charity. These communities are involved in various activities, including education, healthcare, and community outreach.
Vocations
Parishes
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The Diocese of Guaranda has 24 parishes and 12 missions, serving a diverse Catholic community in the province of Bolivar. The parishes are organized into several deaneries, each with its own unique characteristics and traditions.
Mission and Services
The Diocese of Guaranda is committed to serving the community through various mission and service activities. The diocese has several programs and institutions dedicated to education, healthcare, and social justice, including Catholic schools, hospitals, and charitable organizations.
Notable Events or Figures
- The Diocese of Guaranda has been involved in several notable events, including the visit of Pope John Paul II to Ecuador in 1985.
- The diocese is home to several notable figures, including Bishop Rafael Hergueta, who served as the bishop of the diocese from 2007 to 2013.
Titular Status
The Diocese of Guaranda does not have a titular status, as it is an active diocese.
Fun Facts
Below are some fun facts about the Diocese of Guaranda:
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Diocesan Photos
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