AMERICA/PANAMA - Appointment of the Bishop of Colón - Kuna Yala

Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) - On July 7, 2014, the Holy Father appointed Fr. Manuel Ochogavía Barahona, O.S.A., Prior, Chancellor of the diocese and parish priest in the diocese of Chitre, as Bishop of the Diocese of Colón - Kuna Yala, Panama City.
Father Manuel Ochogavía Barahona was born on July 23, 1967 in Las Tablas, in the province of Los Santos (Panama). After primary and secondary schools, before joining the Augustinian Order, he studied journalism. He did his novitiate at the Monastery of El Escorial, in Madrid, He professed his solemn vows on 11 August 1995. Though initially he wanted to be a simple Brother, he was ordained a priest on May 4, 2002. After ordination, he has held the following positions: 1998-2002: Ministry at the San Agustín College in the diocese of David; 2002-2006: Professor and Administrator of San Agustin College; 2006-2010: Priest in San Jose in Tolé, diocese of David; since 2010: Prior of the Convent and parish priest in the diocese of Chitre, and diocesan chancellor since 2013, Member of the College of Consultors, Member of the Board of his Order for Panama. He is also commissioner of the Movimiento Familiar Cristiano and Diocesan Chaplain of the University Regional Centre in Azuero. (SL) (Agenzia Fides 07/07/2014)