Jorge Gottau was an Argentinian Catholic prelate who served as the inaugural bishop of Añatuya from 1961 until 1992. Born in 1917 to a German immigrant family in San Miguel Arcangel, he joined the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer in 1938. Throughout his ecclesiastical career, which included serving as a provincial superior, he remained dedicated to the Redemptorist order. He also participated in the proceedings of the Second Vatican Council, contributing to the global discussions of the Catholic Church during that era.
Ecclesiastical career
Following his ordination as a priest in 1942, Gottau rose to prominence within his religious order. In 1961, Pope John XXIII established the diocese of Añatuya and appointed him as its first bishop. During his long tenure, he focused heavily on expanding the church's presence by establishing 15 new parishes and 200 chapels. His leadership was characterized by significant social outreach, including the creation of numerous schools, vocational centers, and residential homes for the elderly and disabled.
Veneration
Gottau retired from his episcopal duties in 1992 and passed away in 1994. In 2015, the Archdiocese of Buenos Aires initiated the process for his beatification. He is currently recognized as a venerable member of the Redemptorist congregation.