Diocese of Vacaria
The Diocese of Vacaria, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active diocese located in the northern region of the Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul. Established on 8 September 1934 by Pope Pius XI, it forms part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Passo Fundo and ministers to a predominantly rural Catholic population. The diocese maintains a focus on pastoral care, education, and evangelization in an area marked by strong agricultural traditions and immigrant heritage.
Stored in Cargo: Diocese of Vacaria
| Diocese: Diocese of Vacaria | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Suffragan diocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Passo Fundo |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Passo Fundo |
| Country: | Brazil |
| Region: | Rio Grande do Sul |
| Bishop: | Sílvio Guterres Dutra |
| Website: | https://www.diocesedevacaria.org.br |
| Existence: | 1934– |
| Rating: | 3.5 |
| Chancery Address: | Rua 15 de Novembro, 111, Vacaria, RS, 95200-000, Brazil |
Establishment
The Diocese of Vacaria was erected on 8 September 1934 by Pope Pius XI through the apostolic constitution "Ad maius religionis incrementum", carved from territory previously belonging to the Diocese of Caxias do Sul and the Archdiocese of Porto Alegre.
History
The diocese developed rapidly after its founding amid waves of European immigration to southern Brazil. Its territory has remained stable since erection, with emphasis on rural parishes and formation of local clergy.
Geography
The diocese covers the northern portion of Rio Grande do Sul, including the municipalities of Vacaria, Bom Jesus, São José dos Ausentes, and surrounding areas.
Mother Church
The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Rosary in Vacaria serves as the mother church.
Leadership
Current Bishop
Bishop Sílvio Guterres Dutra has served as bishop since 2023.
Auxiliary Bishops
None.
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Angelo Campagna | 1935–1946 | First bishop; transferred to Archbishop of São Paulo. |
| Antonio Manuel Pereira | 1947–1953 | Died in office. |
| Joseph Péloquin | 1954–1962 | Resigned. |
| Honorato Piazera | 1962–1968 | Transferred to Lages. |
| Angelo Félix Zwirtes | 1969–1992 | Retired. |
| Orlando Brandes | 1992–2006 | Transferred to Londrina. |
| Augustinho Chendi | 2006–2016 | Retired. |
| Sílvio Guterres Dutra | 2023–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 moral teachings and community outreach.
Statistics
The diocese serves approximately 180,000 Catholics across 35 parishes.
Religious Communities
Salesians
The Salesians conduct educational and youth ministry in the diocese.
Parishes
The diocese comprises 35 parishes organized in several pastoral regions.
Mission and Services
Catholic Education
The diocese operates several Catholic schools focused on primary and secondary education.
Community Outreach
Catholic Charities programs provide social assistance to families in rural areas.
Notable Events or Figures
- The first bishop, Angelo Campagna, laid the foundations for diocesan structures in the 1930s.
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Diocese of Vacaria:
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Associated saints
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Religious orders
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Diocesan photos
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