BETLEMME, APOSTOLIC VICARIATE of. - It was erected in 1948 from the western area of the apostolic vicariate of Kroonstad (South Africa), where the Dutch Dominican Fathers had been working since 1932.
The former apostolic vicariate of Kroonstad was thus divided into two vicariates: the western part retained the name of Kroonstad and was entrusted to the Dominican Fathers, while the eastern part, under the name of B., was left to the Fathers of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit.
The territory of the apostolic vicariate of B. covers approximately 34,000 sq. km., with a population of approximately 255,000 souls, of whom 8,801 are indigenous Catholics, 262 foreigners, and 85 of mixed race; catechumens number 2,299. Protestants number approximately 150,000, Jews approximately 200, and pagans approximately 80,000. There are 2 quasi-parishes, 9 principal stations, 35 secondary stations, 6 dispensaries, and 10 elementary schools with 2,183 pupils. There are 22 foreign missionaries and 3 indigenous priests, 7 brothers, and 17 sisters. Catholic Action and the other pious associations are fairly well developed.