Monsignor Morel Diplán installed as Dominican Republic’s new Military Ordinary

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader and First Lady Raquel Arbaje attended the canonical installation of Monsignor Carlos Tomás Morel Diplán as the new Military Ordinary of the Dominican Republic during a ceremony at the Cathedral of the Americas.

The Eucharistic celebration brought together civil and military authorities, priests and Catholic faithful for the formal beginning of Morel Diplán’s ministry, which provides pastoral care to members of the Armed Forces and National Police.

Pope Leo XIV appointed Morel Diplán to the position on October 12, 2026.

In his first address as Military Ordinary, Morel Diplán pledged to provide spiritual guidance and support to military and police personnel and their families. He emphasized the importance of listening, compassion and respect for human dignity, particularly for those who face violence, suffering and difficult situations in the course of their duties.

The Military Ordinariate is a special Catholic jurisdiction responsible for providing religious and pastoral care to members of the Dominican Armed Forces and National Police. Morel Diplán will be supported by a team of vicars, chaplains and other clergy serving the Army, Navy, Air Force and National Police.