DARIÉN, APOSTOLIC VICARIATE of. - The mission of D. is situated in the southeastern part of Panama and includes the least civilized area of the country. Evangelization was begun in the early years of the 16th century by some Dominicans, who were later joined by the Capuchins and the Jesuits; these subsequently had to withdraw because of the hostility of the Indians and the favor shown to Protestants by the civil authorities. At the end of the 18th century, after the persecution had ceased, the Augustinians returned. The apostolic vicariate was erected on 29 Nov. 1925 by dismemberment of the archdiocese of Panama and entrusted to the Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (Claretians).
Approximately, the population may be estimated at 113,000 inhabitants scattered over a territory extending over 28,010 sq. km. There are 64,000 Catholics, 20,500 Protestants, 22,000 pagans, and 6,500 Jews, Mohammedans, and Eastern dissidents. The missionary personnel consists of 25 Claretian priests, 13 lay brothers, and 56 sisters. The vicariate is divided into two districts, 6 parishes, 3 principal stations, and 46 secondary stations. There are 22 churches and 24 chapels. Catholic schools are distributed as follows: 18 elementary schools, with 2,280 pupils; 2 middle schools with 125 pupils; and 2 secondary schools with 960 pupils. Charitable institutions include 1 hospital, 1 orphanage, 1 leper colony, and 1 nursery school. Two periodicals are printed there: El faro and Buen Pastor, with a circulation of 1,000 copies each.