The Holy See has announced the elevation of the Diocese of Santiago del Estero in Argentina to the rank of archdiocese, along with the appointment of its first archbishop, Monsignor Vicente Bokalic Iglic, C.M. This appointment includes the title of Primate of Argentina, a distinction previously held by the Archbishop of Buenos Aires.

This decision acknowledges the historical and ecclesiastical significance of Santiago del Estero, the first episcopal see in the territory that is now Argentina. Known as the Diocese of Tucumán since 1570, it has played a central role in spreading the Gospel in the region. Alejandro Russo, Rector of the Metropolitan Cathedral of Buenos Aires, explained that this move aligns with the Church’s tradition of granting the title of primate to the oldest episcopal sees, such as Lyon in France and Toledo in Spain.

A joint statement from the archbishops of Santiago del Estero and Buenos Aires highlights the historical reasons behind this resolution, inviting the faithful to celebrate it and view it as an opportunity to strengthen national unity from an ecclesial perspective.

“Santiago del Estero has been known for centuries as the ‘Mother of Cities’ and is also the ‘Mother of Dioceses’ in Argentina, which justifies honoring it as Primate,” the statement reads. The archbishops also called upon the guidance of the Blessed Virgin Mary, represented in the advocations of Sumampa and Luján, to accompany the Church in this new phase.

Monsignor Vicente Bokalic Iglic, C.M.

Vicente Bokalic Iglic was born on June 11, 1952, in Lanús, Buenos Aires Province. He made his perpetual vows in the Congregation of the Mission on June 5, 1976, and was ordained a priest on April 1, 1978. He has served as Provincial Superior of the Congregation in Argentina and as parochial vicar of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal.

On March 15, 2010, Pope Benedict XVI appointed him Titular Bishop of Summa and Auxiliary Bishop of Buenos Aires. His episcopal ordination took place on May 29, 2010, at the Parish of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal in Buenos Aires, with then-Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, now Pope Francis, as the principal consecrator.

During his tenure as Auxiliary Bishop, Bokalic Iglic served as episcopal vicar of the Central Zone. On December 23, 2013, Pope Francis appointed him titular bishop of the Diocese of Santiago del Estero, a position he assumed on March 9, 2014.

This new appointment of Bokalic Iglic as Archbishop of Santiago del Estero and Primate of Argentina underscores his dedication and leadership within the Church. His ongoing service continues to pave a significant path for the Catholic community in Argentina.