Diocese of Santa Rosa de Copán
The Diocese of Santa Rosa de Copán, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active diocese serving western Honduras. Erected on 2 February 1916 by Pope Benedict XV, it forms part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Tegucigalpa and ministers to a predominantly rural Catholic population. Bishop Ángel Garachana Pérez, C.M. has led the diocese since 1996, guiding its pastoral work amid regional challenges. The diocese maintains a strong emphasis on evangelization and community support in the Copán area. Stored in Cargo: Diocese of Santa Rosa de Copán
| Diocese: Diocese of Santa Rosa de Copán | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Suffragan diocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Tegucigalpa |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Tegucigalpa |
| Country: | Honduras |
| Region: | Copán |
| Bishop: | Ángel Garachana Pérez |
| Existence: | 1916– |
| Rating: | 4.0 |
Establishment
The Diocese of Santa Rosa de Copán was established on 2 February 1916 by Pope Benedict XV to serve the growing Catholic population in western Honduras, carved from territory previously under the Archdiocese of Tegucigalpa.
History
The diocese developed through missionary efforts in the early twentieth century, focusing on rural evangelization in the Copán region. It has maintained its boundaries without major alterations since its erection and continues its work under successive bishops.
Geography
The diocese covers the western departments of Honduras, including areas around Santa Rosa de Copán and surrounding municipalities in the Copán region. It belongs to the Ecclesiastical Province of Tegucigalpa.
Mother Church
The Catedral de Santa Rosa de Lima in Santa Rosa de Copán serves as the diocese’s mother church.
Leadership
Current Bishop
Ángel Garachana Pérez, C.M. has served since 1996. A member of the Congregation of the Mission, he has overseen pastoral initiatives in education and social outreach.
Auxiliary Bishops
No auxiliary bishops are currently assigned.
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| José María Martínez y Cabañas | 1916–1923 | First bishop; established initial parishes. |
| Ángel María Garachana Pérez | 1996–present | Current bishop; focuses on rural ministry. |
Theological and Cultural Orientation
The diocese leans slightly conservative (rating: 4.0), with traditional liturgical practices prominent, emphasis on doctrinal teachings, and leadership priorities centered on fidelity to Church doctrine.
Statistics
The diocese serves communities across western Honduras with multiple parishes and missions.
Religious Communities
Congregation of the Mission (Vincentians)
The Congregation of the Mission supports parish ministry and formation under Bishop Garachana Pérez.
Parishes
The diocese comprises numerous parishes organized across its territory.
Mission and Services
Catholic Education
The diocese supports Catholic schools focused on faith formation and basic education.
Community Outreach
Programs address local needs in health, poverty alleviation, and family support.
Notable Events or Figures
- Bishop Ángel Garachana Pérez has guided the diocese for nearly three decades with a focus on missionary outreach.
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Diocese of Santa Rosa de Copán:
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Associated saints
No saints yet.
Religious orders
No religious orderes categorized yet.
Diocesan photos
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References
External Links
- [Official diocesan resources via Archdiocese of Tegucigalpa]