Diocese of San Rafael
The Diocese of San Rafael, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active diocese located in southern Mendoza Province in Argentina. Founded on 10 May 1961 by Pope John XXIII, it forms part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Mendoza and serves a predominantly rural Catholic population across a vast territory. The diocese maintains its mother church in the city of San Rafael and continues to support pastoral care, education, and evangelization in the region.
Stored in Cargo: Diocese of San Rafael
| Diocese: Diocese of San Rafael | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Suffragan diocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Mendoza |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Mendoza |
| Country: | Argentina |
| Region: | Mendoza Province |
| Bishop: | Eduardo María Taussig |
| Website: | https://www.diocesissanrafael.org.ar |
| Existence: | 1961– |
| Rating: | 3.5 |
| Chancery Address: | Av. San Martín 150, San Rafael, Mendoza, Argentina |
Establishment
The Diocese of San Rafael was established on 10 May 1961 by Pope John XXIII to serve the growing Catholic population in southern Mendoza Province, separating territory from the Archdiocese of Mendoza.
History
The diocese was created amid post-war population growth and missionary needs in the Cuyo region of Argentina. Its territory has remained stable since erection, with emphasis on rural parishes and outreach to agricultural communities.
Geography
The diocese covers the southern portion of Mendoza Province, including the departments of San Rafael, General Alvear, and Malargüe.
Mother Church
The Cathedral of San Rafael Arcángel in San Rafael serves as the mother church of the diocese.
Leadership
Current Bishop
Eduardo María Taussig has served as bishop since 2016.
Auxiliary Bishops
None currently.
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Raúl Francisco Primatesta | 1961–1965 | First bishop; later Archbishop of Córdoba. |
| José Miguel Medina | 1965–1972 | Transferred to another see. |
| León Kruk | 1973–1991 | Long-serving bishop focused on rural ministry. |
| Jesús Arturo Labrín | 1991–1993 | Brief tenure. |
| Guillermo Rodríguez Melgarejo | 1994–2003 | Later transferred. |
| Eduardo María Taussig | 2004–2016 | Appointed to another see before returning as bishop. |
| Eduardo María Taussig | 2016–present | Current bishop. |
Theological and Cultural Orientation
The diocese maintains a balanced approach (rating 3.5), with standard liturgical practices and equal attention to traditional teachings and community outreach.
Statistics
The diocese serves a large rural area with numerous parishes and missions.
Religious Communities
Several religious institutes assist in parish work and education.
Parishes
The diocese comprises numerous parishes organized across its territory.
Mission and Services
Catholic Education
The diocese supports Catholic schools in its main cities.
Community Outreach
Programs focus on assistance to rural families and migrants.
Notable Events or Figures
- The diocese has hosted regional Eucharistic congresses promoting devotion to the Blessed Sacrament.
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Diocese of San Rafael:
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Associated saints
No saints yet.
Religious orders
No religious orderes categorized yet.
Diocesan photos
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