Catholic dioceses in Portugal launch new pastoral initiatives

Various Portuguese dioceses are launching new pastoral initiatives and conducting community visits. In Funchal, the Diocese has commenced the 2026/2027 Pastoral Year with the theme ‘Be practitioners of the Word’, focusing on integrating faith into daily life through the Cathedral of Funchal.

In the Diocese of Setúbal, Cardinal Américo Aguiar has begun pastoral visits, including a stop at the Amora Parish. During his visit, which coincided with the 112th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, the Cardinal emphasized the importance of welcoming migrants and refugees, stating that ‘in Christ no one is a stranger.’

In the Azores, the Diocese of Angra is strengthening its support for human mobility. Efforts include providing psychological support and establishing a dedicated residence for migrants, displaced persons, and refugees to facilitate better integration and protection within the archipelago.