Syriac Orthodox Patriarch Aphrem II installs new Bishop for Diocese of Central Guatemala following consecration of three new bishops for Guatamela

COMALAPA, Guatemala — During a trip to South America, Syriac Orthodox Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem II installed Mor Andrawis Orlando Lopez as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Central Guatemala during a ceremony at the Cathedral of Saint John Al Maamadani in Comalapa.

Throughout the ceremony, rich hymns filled the cathedral as sacred rites were performed to mark this auspicious occasion, signifying a new chapter in the spiritual leadership of the Syriac Orthodox community in Guatemala.

As the Mass concluded, heartfelt congratulations and blessings were extended to Bishop Andrawis Orlando Lopez, accompanied by fervent prayers for his guidance and wisdom in leading the faithful of the diocese on their spiritual journey.

At the beginning of this month, Patriarch Aphrem II led the consecration of three new bishops for Guatemala at the St. Mary Cathedral in Guatemala City: Rev. Raban Marcos Manuel Caisedo Tenorio, appointed as Bishop of Western Guatemala, Rev. Andres Orlando Lopez Hernandes, appointed Bishop of the Diocese of Central Guatemala, and Rev. Raban Wilfredo Jose Hortado Roez, appointed Bishop of the Diocese of Northern Guatemala.

The consecrations align with the Holy Synod’s decision in June 2023 to expand the diocese of Guatemala.