Diocese of Yopal
The Diocese of Yopal, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active diocese encompassing the departments of Casanare and Arauca in Colombia. Founded on December 4, 2003, by Pope John Paul II, it is led by Bishop Misael Vacca Ramirez as of 2023. As part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Tunja, the diocese serves a growing Catholic community in eastern Colombia, with 24 parishes and 2 missions. A notable aspect is its vibrant cultural heritage, reflecting its dynamic role in fostering Catholic faith in the region.
Stored in Cargo: Diocese of Yopal
| Diocese: Diocese of Yopal | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Suffragan diocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Tunja |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Tunja |
| Country: | Colombia |
| Region: | Casanare and Arauca |
| Bishop: | Misael Vacca Ramirez |
| Deaneries: | 2 |
| Priests: | 30 |
| Existence: | 2003– |
| Predecessor Dioceses: | Diocese of Duitama-Sogamoso |
Establishment
The Diocese of Yopal was established on December 4, 2003, by Pope John Paul II to serve the growing Catholic population in the departments of Casanare and Arauca, splitting from the Diocese of Duitama-Sogamoso.
History
The diocese has its roots in the early Christian missions in the region. Over time, the area has developed a strong Catholic presence, with the diocese playing a significant role in the local community.
Geography
The diocese spans the departments of Casanare and Arauca in eastern Colombia, covering a total area of approximately 17,300 square kilometers. It is part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Tunja.
Mother Church
The Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Presentación in Yopal serves as the diocese's mother church.
Leadership
Current Bishop
Bishop Misael Vacca Ramirez has served as the bishop of the Diocese of Yopal since 2023.
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Misael Vacca Ramirez | 2023–present | Current Bishop |
| Julio Hernando García Peláez | 2012–2023 | |
| Misael Vacca Ramirez | 2003–2012 | First Bishop of Yopal |
Theological and Cultural Orientation
The diocese's theological and cultural orientation is shaped by its Latin Rite tradition and its location in eastern Colombia.
Statistics
The diocese covers an area of approximately 17,300 square kilometers, serving a population of around 410,000 people, with about 85% identifying as Catholic.
Religious Communities
The diocese is home to several religious communities, including the Jesuits and the Sisters of Charity.
Vocations
Parishes
| Diocese of Yopal |
|---|
|
No results |
| This map created from a Cargo query () |
The Diocese of Yopal has 24 parishes and 2 missions, serving the Catholic community in the departments of Casanare and Arauca.
Mission and Services
The diocese is involved in various mission-driven activities, including Catholic education and community outreach programs.
Notable Events or Figures
- The diocese has a strong devotion to Nuestra Señora de la Presentación, the patroness of the diocese.
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Diocese of Yopal:
Dynamic content
Associated saints
No saints yet.
Religious orders
No religious orderes categorized yet.
Diocesan photos
No results
References
External Links
- [Official website of the Diocese of Yopal]
- [Catholic-Hierarchy.org entry for the Diocese of Yopal]