Catholic Institutions in Argentina from the Twentieth Century to the Present: Consolidation, Evidences of Decline, and Crisis—a Statistical Analysis

Abstract

Throughout the twentieth century, Catholic institutions in Argentina experienced a period of consolidation, followed by evidence of decline and crisis. The reinforcement of the Romanization process at the beginning of the twentieth century, combined with the integralist emphasis of Catholicism at the beginning of the century, led to the strengthening of the Catholic presence in the country. The number of institutions and consecrated agents responsible for them continued to consolidate, as measured by the Statistical Yearbooks of the Church. However, this consolidation was followed by the beginning of the decline. This article focuses on the Catholic institutions that the Church itself monitors over time through its Statistical Yearbooks. It analyzes the number of dioceses and parishes, the number of priests and religious congregations, and the administration of the sacraments. The article examines the challenges currently facing the Catholic Church in Argentina, including the decline in the number of priests, religious people, and participation in the sacraments. Overall, this article offers a comprehensive view of Catholic institutions in Argentina from the twentieth century to the present. It highlights the consolidation, evidence of decline, and crisis that the Church has faced over the years and provides insight into the challenges it continues to face today.