It is inhabited by a tribe whose name derives from the word *raramuri* (from "swift foot") because of the still-current playful custom of chasing a ball of oak wood with their feet. The Jesuit Fr. Juan de la Fuente explored the region of the Tarahumara in 1614, and other confreres sought to convert them to the faith. With the expulsion of the Jesuits from Mexico in 1767, the area was abandoned. Apostolic work resumed in 1900. During the First World War, the missionaries were expelled and could only return in 1921, beginning the education of the youth. During the persecution, the work suffered another interruption. Today the mission is in full development. On May 6, 1950, the territory, detached from the diocese of Chihuahua, was erected into an apostolic prefecture and entrusted to the Jesuits.
It has an area of approximately 36,200 sq. km. with approximately 86,919 inhabitants, of whom only 4,000 are pagans. Missionaries: 15; brothers: 17; sisters: 69; catechists: 68. Primary stations: 7; secondary stations: 64; churches: 7; chapels: 64; elementary schools: 13.