Cruz das Almas, Brazil

With a population of 324,392, Cruz das Almas is no quaint Brazilian town. The Roman Catholic Diocese headquartered here is the main draw, though the bureaucracy to establish a presence can be a persistent headache. Newly minted in 2017, the diocese is led by Bishop Antônio Tourinho Neto, a sign this rapidly growing city is cementing its religious identity. For those seeking a hub of Catholic activity in Brazil, Cruz das Almas may be worth considering, but the day-to-day realities of living in a mid-sized provincial city are not to be overlooked.