The new Primate See of Argentina is Santiago del Estero

26-07-24

In a surprising and significant decision, Pope Francis has transferred the title of Primate See of Argentina from Buenos Aires to Santiago del Estero. This historic move, announced last Monday, not only marks a change in the ecclesiastical hierarchy, but also recognizes the deep historical heritage of the first diocese established in what is now Argentina. Below, we will explore the details and impact of this decision.

Pope Francis has decided to elevate the diocese of Santiago del Estero to the rank of archdiocese, making it the primate see of Argentina. This title, held since 1936 by the Archdiocese of Buenos Aires, is now transferred to Santiago del Estero, in a move that highlights the historical and spiritual importance of this region. The measure also implies the repeal of the Decree of the Sacred Consistorial Congregation Cum ecclesiastica provincia Bonaërensis, which had conferred the title of primate to Buenos Aires.

Santiago del Estero, known as the “Mother of Cities”, has a rich ecclesiastical history dating back to the 16th century. It was in 1570 when Pope Pius V established the Diocese of Tucumán, based in what is now Santiago del Estero. This first diocese covered a vast territory, and its cathedral, the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, was the first episcopal center in what is now Argentina. Francis' decision to transfer the title of primate to Santiago del Estero is based on this historical relevance.

Pope Francis' announcement has been greeted with a mixture of surprise and enthusiasm. In a joint statement, the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Monsignor Jorge Ignacio García Cuerva, and the new Archbishop of Santiago del Estero, Monsignor Vicente Bokalic Iglic CM, expressed their gratitude and reflected on the significance of the change. This decision not only underscores the historical relevance of Santiago del Estero, but also symbolizes a renewed federal focus within the Argentinean Church.

Father Alejandro Russo, rector of the Metropolitan Cathedral, explained that this decision will help consolidate a more federal vision of the Church in Argentina, and will help overcome the perception that “God is everywhere, but attends in Buenos Aires.” This perspective aligns with Pope Francis' vision of focusing on the peripheries and recognizing the history and importance of regions less prominent in the recent past.

Santiago del Estero is not only the oldest city in Argentina, but was also the birthplace of Mama Antula, the first Argentine woman to be declared a saint. The city has been an important spiritual and cultural center since the arrival of the first missionaries. It also hosted the IX National Eucharistic Congress in 1994, an event of great relevance for the Church in Argentina.

The elevation of Santiago del Estero to the category of primate archdiocese highlights its historical and spiritual role in the nation. Unlike other cities that hold the title of primate see for historical reasons, such as Madrid, Paris or Lyon, Santiago del Estero stands out for being the first diocese established in the Argentine territory.

Pope Francis' decision to transfer the title of Primate See to Santiago del Estero is a significant recognition of the rich history and spiritual impact of this region. This move not only honors Santiago del Estero's ecclesiastical past, but also promotes a more equitable and federal vision within the Argentine Church. As the Pontifical Bull is executed in the coming weeks, this change promises to strengthen the sense of identity and unity in the Church of Argentina, celebrating the history and present of Santiago del Estero as a vital center of faith.

Source: Bernardo Sabisky. Viajes, fotos y comidas

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