The Archdiocese of São Salvador da Bahia was the first in the country, which is why it holds the title of Primate of Brazil.

Newsdesk (July 29, 2021, 17:25 PM, Gaudium Press) On August 6, the Archbishop of Salvador and Primate of Brazil, Cardinal Sergio da Rocha, will preside the solemnity for the 470th anniversary of the creation of the Primatial See of the Church in Brazil.

Currently, the Archdiocese of Salvador has four basilicas, 101 parishes, and three deacons. The celebration was scheduled for February 25 this year, but they had to postpone the date due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Preparatory Triduum

A triduum will precede the celebration from August 3 to 5 at 4 pm at the Basilica Cathedral. The ceremonies will be presided by auxiliary bishops and representatives of the consecrated life (1st day), of the clergy (2nd day), and the laity (3rd day).

The Archdiocese of São Salvador da Bahia was the first in the country and thus, has the title of Primate of Brazil. Created by Pope Julius III’s Bull “Super specula militantis ecclesiae,” the Archdiocese of Salvador de Bahia has an immeasurable religious and historical importance.

Gallery of Bishops and Archbishops of São Salvador da Bahia

On August 6, as part of the celebrations for the 470th anniversary of the foundation of the Primatial Diocese, the Cathedral Palace, located at Sé Square, in Salvador, will inaugurate an exhibition entitled “Gallery of Bishops and Archbishops of São Salvador da Bahia.”

The exhibition will show, in chronological order, images of all the Bishops and Archbishops of this Church; from the first one, Dom Pedro Fernandes Sardinha (1551-1556), to the current one, Cardinal Dom Sergio da Rocha (2020). It will also display some of the vestments used by the prelates. (EPC)

Compiled by Ena Alfaro