GALAPAGOS, APOSTOLIC PREFECTURE of the Islands of. — By decree of the Sacred Consistorial Congregation, dated 6 May 1950, the new apostolic prefecture was erected, comprising the entire archipelago of the Islands of Colón, or of G., which formed part of the diocese of Guayaquil (Ecuador).
It lies approximately 950 km from the continent. It consists of five large islands, seven smaller islands, and a large number of islets. The total area is approximately 7,884 sq km. The population does not reach 2,000 inhabitants, but is tending to increase. For 120 years no priest has resided there permanently, and several inhabitants have not been baptized.
The new prefecture has been entrusted to the Friars Minor, who will have to begin their apostolic work from nothing.