Dom Frei Antônio Barreiros becomes third bishop of São Salvador

Dom Frei Antônio Barreiros served as the third bishop of the Diocese of São Salvador da Bahia. Born in Aviz, Portugal, he joined the Order of Saint Benedict of Aviz and studied at the University of Coimbra, where he earned degrees in arts and theology.

After being presented for the episcopate by King Sebastian, Pope Gregory XIII confirmed his appointment on June 20, 1575. Barreiros arrived in Bahia the following year and took possession of the diocese during the Feast of the Ascension. During his 24-year episcopate, he appointed new canons to the chapter, managed the seminary, and finished building the cathedral towers. He also ordained priests, established parishes, and conducted pastoral visits.

Barreiros worked to organize ecclesiastical affairs in Rio de Janeiro, which led to that territory being separated from the Diocese of Bahia to form a new ecclesiastical jurisdiction. This change was established by Pope Gregory XIII on July 19, 1576.