Prelature of São Félix
The Diocese of Prelature of São Félix, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active diocese in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso. Established on 25 November 1970, it serves a vast missionary territory in the Amazon region as part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Palmas. Led by Bishop Adriano Ciocca Vasino since 2013, the prelature focuses on evangelization among indigenous and rural communities. A notable aspect is its role in supporting the Xavante and other indigenous peoples through pastoral initiatives rooted in Catholic social teaching.
Stored in Cargo: Prelature of São Félix
| Diocese: Prelature of São Félix | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Territorial Prelature |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Palmas |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Palmas |
| Country: | Brazil |
| Region: | Mato Grosso |
| Bishop: | Adriano Ciocca Vasino |
| Existence: | 1970– |
| Rating: | 4.0 |
Establishment
The Prelature of São Félix was erected on 25 November 1970 by Pope Paul VI to serve the growing needs of the Church in the remote Araguaia region of central Brazil.
History
The territory was previously part of the Diocese of Diamantino. Early efforts focused on missionary work among indigenous groups, with the prelature playing a key role in the defense of native lands during the late twentieth century.
Geography
The prelature covers a large area of northern Mato Grosso, including municipalities along the Araguaia River and surrounding savanna and forest regions. It forms part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Palmas.
Mother Church
The Cathedral of São Félix do Araguaia serves as the mother church of the prelature.
Leadership
Current Bishop
Bishop Adriano Ciocca Vasino has led the prelature since 2013.
Auxiliary Bishops
No auxiliary bishops are currently assigned.
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pedro Casaldáliga | 1970–2005 | First prelate; known for work with indigenous communities. |
| Leonardo Ulrich Steiner | 2005–2011 | Later became Archbishop of Manaus. |
| Adriano Ciocca Vasino | 2013–present | Current prelate. |
Theological and Cultural Orientation
The prelature leans slightly conservative (rating: 4.0), with emphasis on traditional pastoral care for rural and indigenous populations alongside standard Latin Rite practices.
Statistics
The prelature encompasses a vast rural territory with limited parish infrastructure serving scattered Catholic communities.
Religious Communities
Missionary congregations have historically supported evangelization and social projects in the region.
Parishes
The prelature maintains a small number of parishes and mission stations across its extensive territory.
Mission and Services
Catholic Education
Limited Catholic schools operate in key population centers to support local families.
Community Outreach
Pastoral programs emphasize human rights, land justice, and support for indigenous peoples.
Notable Events or Figures
- Bishop Pedro Casaldáliga served as the founding prelate and became a prominent voice for social justice in Brazil.
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Prelature of São Félix:
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Associated saints
No saints yet.
Religious orders
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Diocesan photos
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