From February 22 to March 1, the 2026 Vicariate Assembly of the Apostolic Vicariate of San José del Amazonas was held in the town of Indiana, Peru. More than 90 people from the Napo, Putumayo, Amazonas, and Yavarí river basins participated in this meeting, which reaffirms the synodal journey of the Church in the Amazon.
Missionaries and pastoral agents gathered to deepen their understanding of synodality and the development of the vicariate’s pastoral plan, in a context marked by the social, economic, and environmental challenges facing the Amazon region.
A space for retreat, reflection, and discernment
The Assembly took place in an atmosphere of prayer, dialogue, and community discernment. Led by theologian Birgit Weiler, a spiritual retreat was held that strengthened missionary identity and helped to project pastoral work in the light of the Gospel, renewing the commitment to the indigenous and riverine communities served by the Vicariate.
This time of grace reaffirmed that the mission in the Amazon requires deep listening, closeness to the peoples, and a Church that walks alongside its people.
Illuminating reality from the mission
During the Assembly, lawyer Verónica Shibuya, from the Amazonian Center for Anthropology and Practical Application (CAAAP), offered an analysis of the country’s electoral reality, providing keys to understanding the current context and guidelines for acting responsibly and with commitment from the pastoral mission.
This space allowed for the integration of faith and reality, reaffirming the Amazonian Church’s commitment to justice, conscious citizen participation, and care for the common good.
Pastoral evaluation and projection
During the week, the pastoral plan continued to be developed, reviewing the progress and situation of the different areas:
• Communion
• Social proposal
• Youth ministry
• Indigenous accompaniment
• Economic reality and sustainability
With the accompaniment of Henry and Mayte, the process fostered sincere dialogue about difficulties, dreams, and hopes, advancing the development of the POAs that will guide the work in the different mission posts.
Likewise, the protocol for the protection of vulnerable persons was strengthened, in line with current challenges and the Church’s commitment to create safe spaces in all communities.
A sign of hope: a new diaconal ordination
The Assembly culminated in a joyful celebration: the diaconal ordination of Leonardo Vargas Lara, who takes up service to the Vicariate amid the difficulties and limitations of the Amazon rainforest.
This event was experienced as a sign of hope for the Vicariate, which continues to grow and consolidate its mission in service to the Amazonian peoples.
From CEAMA, we join in thanksgiving for this 2026 Vicariate Assembly, which reflects a living, synodal Amazonian Church committed to the defense of life, the dignity of peoples, and the care of our Common Home.
May the Spirit continue to guide this pastoral journey in the heart of the Amazon.
