Diocese of Soacha
The Diocese of Soacha, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active diocese encompassing the city of Soacha in Colombia. Founded in 2006 by Pope Benedict XVI, it is led by Bishop Juan Carlos Barreto Barreto as of 2023. As part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Bogotá, the diocese serves a growing Catholic community in the urban area of Soacha, with 43 parishes and 12 missions. A notable aspect is its vibrant community outreach programs, which provide support to over 10,000 people annually, reflecting its dynamic role in fostering Catholic faith in the region.
Stored in Cargo: Diocese of Soacha
| Diocese: Diocese of Soacha | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Suffragan diocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Bogotá |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Bogotá |
| Country: | Colombia |
| Region: | Cundinamarca |
| Bishop: | Juan Carlos Barreto Barreto |
| Deaneries: | 5 |
| Priests: | 60 |
| Existence: | 2006– |
| Predecessor Dioceses: | Archdiocese of Bogotá |
Establishment
The Diocese of Soacha was established on August 6, 2006, by Pope Benedict XVI to serve the growing Catholic population in the city of Soacha, splitting from the Archdiocese of Bogotá.[1]
History
The diocese has its roots in the early Christian growth in the region, with the first Catholic missions established in the 16th century. Over time, the area grew in importance, leading to the creation of the Diocese of Soacha in 2006. The diocese has since focused on community outreach and education, with various programs and initiatives aimed at supporting the local population.
Geography
The diocese spans the city of Soacha in the department of Cundinamarca, Colombia. It is part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Bogotá.[2]
Mother Church
The diocese's mother church is the Cathedral of Soacha, a modern structure built in the 21st century. The cathedral serves as the seat of the bishop and a center of worship for the local community.[3]
Leadership
Current Bishop
Bishop Juan Carlos Barreto Barreto has served as the bishop of the Diocese of Soacha since 2023. A former parish priest, he focuses on community outreach and education.[4]
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| José Daniel Falla Robles | 2009–2012 | First bishop of the diocese. |
| Juan Carlos Barreto Barreto | 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 neutral stance.[5]
Statistics
The diocese covers an area of approximately 544 square kilometers, serves over 1.5 million Catholics across 43 parishes, and has a total population of around 2 million people.[6]
Religious Communities
The diocese is home to several religious communities, including the Sisters of Charity and the Jesuits. These communities operate schools, hospitals, and other social services in the area.[7]
Vocations
Parishes
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The Diocese of Soacha has 43 parishes, organized into 5 deaneries. The parishes serve the local community, providing spiritual support and social services.[8]
Mission and Services
Catholic Education
The diocese operates several schools, providing education to thousands of students in the area.
| School Name | City | Type | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
Community Outreach
The diocese has various community outreach programs, providing support to over 10,000 people annually.[9]
Notable Events or Figures
- The diocese has a strong devotion to the Virgin Mary, with several shrines and churches dedicated to her honor.[10]
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Diocese of Soacha:
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Religious orders
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Diocesan photos
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References
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External Links
- [ Official website]
- [ Diocesan Newspaper]
- [ Cathedral website]
- [ Catholic Charities website]