Chronology of Catholic Dioceses:Notes on the Apostolic Vicariate of Tierradentro, 2000
The Holy Father, John Paul II, has elevated (17th February 2000) the Prefecture Apostolic of Tierradentro (Colombia) to the rank of Vicariate Apostolic with the same name and territory.
The new Vicariate Apostolic of Tierradentro (Colombia) was created through the elevation of the Prefecture Apostolic established on May 13th 1921, and entrusted to the Lazzarist Fathers (C. M. ). The new Vicariate has an area of 2,085 sq km., and it is situated on the Central Chain of the Andes, at an altitude varying between 1,200 and 5,750 meters above sea level. The population, about 50,000, is very young and 40% are members of indigenous ethnic groups.
All of them are declared Christians although the grade of evangelization of customs and practices is still low. The territory is divided into 12 parishes looked after by 20 priests (7 diocesan , of whom 2 indigenous, and 13 Lazzarists religious). There are 40 women Religious belonging to 4 different Congregations, 220 catechists and "delegates of the Word" especially trained and coordinated by the respective parish priests, and 13 major seminarians. There are 2 minor seminaries, one for students of mixed race with 80 pupils and one for Paez Indigenous students with 85.
The Vicariate Apostolic was established for the following reasons: the Prefecture is seventy eight years old; it has well prepared and committed laity and local vocations both to the priesthood and the religious life; pastoral work is articulated and coordinated; four new parishes will soon be opened.
Source: Fides, March 3rd, 2000
- CT