Diocese of Ocaña
The Diocese of Ocaña, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active diocese encompassing the departments of Arauca, Casanare, and parts of Boyacá and Vichada in Colombia. Founded in 1977 by Pope Paul VI, it is led by Bishop Luis Horacio Gómez González as of 2023. As part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Tunja, the diocese serves a diverse Catholic community in a region known for its agricultural and oil industries, with 34 parishes and 2 missions. 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 Ocaña
| Diocese: Diocese of Ocaña | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Suffragan diocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Tunja |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Tunja |
| Country: | Colombia |
| Region: | Arauca, Casanare, Boyacá, Vichada |
| Bishop: | Luis Horacio Gómez González |
| Priests: | 25 |
| Existence: | 1977– |
| Predecessor Dioceses: | Archdiocese of Tunja |
Establishment
The Diocese of Ocaña was established on July 26, 1977, by Pope Paul VI to serve the growing Catholic population in the departments of Arauca, Casanare, and parts of Boyacá and Vichada, splitting from the Archdiocese of Tunja.[1]
History
The diocese has its roots in the early Christian missions in the region, with the first Catholic presence dating back to the 16th century. Over the centuries, the area has been part of various dioceses, including the Archdiocese of Tunja, until its establishment as a separate diocese in 1977. The diocese has been led by several bishops, including its first bishop, Rafael Sarmiento Peralta, who played a key role in shaping the diocese's early years.[2]
Geography
The diocese spans the departments of Arauca, Casanare, and parts of Boyacá and Vichada, covering a total area of approximately 26,610 square kilometers. It is part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Tunja and is bordered by the dioceses of Arauca, Yopal, and Tunja.[3]
Mother Church
The diocese's mother church is the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, located in Ocaña, which serves as the seat of the bishop and a symbol of the diocese's faith and tradition.[4]
Leadership
Current Bishop
Luis Horacio Gómez González has served as the bishop of the Diocese of Ocaña since 2023. A native of Colombia, he has a strong background in pastoral ministry and has served in various roles within the diocese before his appointment as bishop.[5]
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rafael Sarmiento Peralta | 1977–1985 | First bishop of the Diocese of Ocaña. |
| Jorge Leonardo Gómez Serna | 1985–2001 | Served as bishop for 16 years, focusing on social justice and education. |
| Luis Albeiro Maldonado Monsalve | 2001–2015 | Emphasized evangelization and pastoral care during his tenure. |
Theological and Cultural Orientation
The diocese has a moderate theological and cultural orientation, with a focus on social justice, education, and pastoral care. The diocese has a strong tradition of promoting Catholic values and principles, while also engaging with the local culture and community.[6]
Statistics
The diocese covers an area of approximately 26,610 square kilometers, with a total population of around 450,000 people, of which about 70% are Catholic. The diocese has 34 parishes and 2 missions, with a total of 25 priests serving the community.[7]
Religious Communities
The diocese is home to several religious communities, including the Jesuits, who operate a school and support parish ministries in the diocese. Address: [8]
Vocations
Vocations Contact for Diocese of Ocaña (Diocese) • Both
- Contact: Rev. Juan Carlos Ramírez
- Email: vocations@diocesedeocana.org
- Phone: (57) 582 1234
- Website: Official Vocations Page
- Notes: General vocations office
- Last Verified: May 22, 2026
Parishes
| Diocese of Ocaña |
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The Diocese of Ocaña has a total of 34 parishes and 2 missions, serving a diverse Catholic community in the region. The parishes are organized into several deaneries, with the cathedral parish serving as the mother church of the diocese.[9]
Mission and Services
The diocese is committed to providing various services to the community, including Catholic education, healthcare, and social outreach programs. The diocese operates several schools, including a seminary, and supports various charitable initiatives in the region.[10]
Notable Events or Figures
- The diocese has been served by several notable bishops, including Rafael Sarmiento Peralta, who played a key role in shaping the diocese's early years.
- The diocese has a strong tradition of promoting Catholic values and principles, while also engaging with the local culture and community.
- The diocese has been involved in various social justice initiatives, including support for indigenous communities and advocacy for human rights.[11]
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Diocese of Ocaña:
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References
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