Diocese of Margarita

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The Diocese of Margarita, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active diocese encompassing the island of Margarita in the Venezuelan state of Nueva Esparta. Founded in 1969 by Pope Paul VI, it is led by Bishop Fernando José Castro Aguayo as of 2023. As part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Cumaná, the diocese serves a growing Catholic community, with 23 parishes and 2 missions. A notable aspect is its vibrant cultural heritage, reflecting its dynamic role in fostering Catholic faith in the region.

Stored in Cargo: Diocese of Margarita

Diocese: Diocese of Margarita
Status:Active
Rite:Latin
Type:Suffragan diocese
Ecclesiastical Province:Province of Cumaná
Metropolitan Archdiocese:Archdiocese of Cumaná
Country:Venezuela
Region:Nueva Esparta
Bishop:Fernando José Castro Aguayo
Existence:1969–

Establishment

The Diocese of Margarita was established on May 18, 1969, by Pope Paul VI to serve the growing Catholic population on the island of Margarita, splitting from the Diocese of Cumaná.[1]

History

The diocese has its roots in the early Christian missionary work on the island. Over the years, it has developed a unique cultural and spiritual identity, shaped by its history and the devotion of its people.

Geography

The diocese spans the entire island of Margarita, including the municipalities of Antolín del Campo, Arismendi, Díaz, García, Gómez, Maneiro, Marcano, Mariño, Península de Macanao, Tubores, and Villalba. It is part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Cumaná.[2]

Mother Church

The diocese's mother church is the Catedral de Nuestra Señora del Valle in La Asunción, a beautiful structure that serves as the seat of the bishop and a symbol of the diocese's faith and heritage.[3]

Leadership

Current Bishop

Bishop Fernando José Castro Aguayo has served since 2023. A former priest in the Archdiocese of Caracas, he focuses on pastoral care and community outreach.[4]

Past Bishops

Name Tenure Notes
Francisco de Guruceaga Iturriza 1969–1973 First Bishop of Margarita.
Francisco José Iturriza Guillén 1973–2001 Served for 28 years.
César Ramón Ortega Herrera 2001–2014 Transferred to Archdiocese of Barquisimeto.
Fernando José Castro Aguayo 2023–present Current Bishop.

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 moderate stance.[5]

Statistics

The diocese covers an area of approximately 1,020 square miles (2,640 km²), serves around 350,000 Catholics across 23 parishes, and has a total population of about 420,000.[6]

Religious Communities

The diocese is home to several religious communities, including the Salesians of Don Bosco and the Sisters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul.[7]

Vocations

Vocations Contact for Diocese of Margarita (Diocese) • Both





Parishes

Main article: List of parishes in Diocese of Margarita
Diocese of Margarita

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This map created from a Cargo query (Purge)

The Diocese of Margarita has 23 parishes, each serving a unique community on the island. The parishes are organized into several deaneries, which provide support and coordination for the local churches.

Mission and Services

The diocese is committed to providing education, healthcare, and social services to the people of Margarita. It operates several schools, hospitals, and community programs, which are staffed by dedicated priests, sisters, and laypeople.

Fun facts

Below are some fun facts about the Diocese of Margarita:


  • Did you know that the Diocese of Margarita is home to the beautiful Catedral de Nuestra Señora del Valle in La Asunción?
  • Surprise! The diocese has a strong devotion to Our Lady of Valle, the patroness of the island.
  • Fun fact: The Diocese of Margarita was established on May 18, 1969, by Pope Paul VI.
  • Little-known gem: The diocese has a unique cultural heritage, shaped by its history and the devotion of its people.
  • Wow moment: The diocese is home to several beautiful beaches and natural attractions, making it a popular tourist destination.
  • Here's something cool: The diocese has a strong commitment to social justice and community outreach.
  • Did you know that the Diocese of Margarita has several religious communities, including the Salesians of Don Bosco and the Sisters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul?

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    Diocesan photos

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    References

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    6. ↑ "Error: no |title= specified when using {{Cite web}}". 
    7. ↑ "Error: no |title= specified when using {{Cite web}}". 

    External Links

    • [ Official website]
    • [ Diocesan newspaper]
    • [ Cathedral website]
    • [ Catholic Charities website]
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