The religious, recognized for his role in the ‘Peace Laboratory’ in Buenaventura, will take over a diocese marked by climatic and social challenges.
News Colombia.
The Diocese of Montería begins a new stage. Pope Leo XIV appointed Rubén Darío Jaramillo Montoya as bishop, who until now led the Diocese of Buenaventura and was one of the most visible voices in dialogue and reconciliation processes in the country.
The appointment follows the transfer of Ramón Alberto Rolón to the Diocese of Chiquinquirá on July 6, 2025. Since then, Montería remained under the guidance of the apostolic administrator, Monsignor Farly Giovanni Gil, bishop of Montelíbano.
The arrival of Jaramillo Montoya does not go unnoticed. During his ministry in Buenaventura, he assumed leadership in a territory affected by urban violence and the presence of armed structures, where he promoted spaces for dialogue to protect the civilian population.
Among its initiatives, the so-called “Peace Laboratory” stood out, a pastoral commitment that sought to stop violence and strengthen the social fabric in the midst of a complex context for the main port of the Colombian Pacific.
Recognition for his work in reconciliation
His work transcended the strictly ecclesiastical sphere. In October 2025 he received the Barakah Award, awarded by the Chamber of Commerce of Bogotá and Valladolid, which recognizes leaders who build bridges between opposing positions. The bishop then stated that he accepted the award as an impetus to continue working for reconciliation.
Born on August 15, 1966 in Santa Rosa de Cabal, Risaralda, he studied philosophy and theology at the María Inmaculada de Pereira Major Seminary and was ordained a priest in 1992. He has a degree in Religious Education and has a specialization in Management of Higher Education Institutions.
In 2017, Pope Francis appointed him bishop of Buenaventura, where he received episcopal ordination and took canonical possession that same year. Since then he consolidated a pastoral profile focused on peace and accompaniment to vulnerable communities.
Now he will assume the pastoral government in Montería, a diocese that faces climate emergencies, impacts in rural areas and problems associated with the armed conflict. The Episcopal Conference of Colombia considers that its experience can promote processes of evangelization and social promotion focused on reconciliation and hope for the department of Córdoba.
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