The Catholic community in Samoa is preparing for a significant event as the episcopal consecration of the newly-elected Archbishop for Samoa, Fr. Mosese Vitolio Tui, is set to take place on August 22. 

This announcement follows the Holy See's decision, revealing Fr. Mosese as the new leader of the Catholic Church in Samoa. He succeeds Bishop Alapati Lui Mata’eliga, who passed away in Auckland on April 25, 2023.

Fr. Mosese, a Salesian priest, has had a distinguished career within the Church. Since arriving in Auckland in March 2018, he has served as the Parish Priest of St. Paul’s Parish in Massey. 

Known for his dedication and the spirit of Don Bosco, Fr. Mosese has become a beloved figure among his parishioners and peers. His service on the Council of Priests and his popularity among the local clergy are testaments to his commitment and leadership.

The Chancellor of the Catholic Church in Samoa, Fr. Spa Silva, confirmed that Fr. Mosese is expected to arrive in Samoa on July 21. 

He explained that Church protocol requires the installation ceremony to occur within three months of the official announcement. The selection process for a new Archbishop was also detailed during a recent media conference.

According to Sister Evelina, the selection process involves the nomination of eligible bishops by the sitting Archbishop every three years. These names are reviewed and, upon the vacancy of the position, consultations and information gathering take place. This list is then submitted to the congregation in Rome for review before being passed to the Pope, who makes the final decision. The Holy See has the authority to appoint anyone from the list or someone else deemed suitable for the role.

Fr. Spa Silva expressed gratitude towards the Salesian Don Bosco community for nurturing a leader like Fr. Mosese. He noted that the Catholic faithful in Samoa had awaited this appointment prayerfully and are thankful, seeing it as a decision guided by divine providence. 

He also acknowledged the country's leaders for their prayers and support during this period of anticipation.

Fr. Mosese's background is marked by extensive formation and service within the Church. Born on November 9, 1961, at Tupua Tamasese Meaola Hospital in Moto'otua, his journey began with postulancy and novitiate training at Auxilium College in Lysterfield, Victoria, Australia, from 1985 to 1986. He made his first profession as a Salesian of Don Bosco on January 31, 1987.

His educational journey included studies at the Australian Catholic University in Melbourne and pastoral formation at Don Bosco Youth Centre & Hostel in Melbourne and Moamoa Theological College in Apia. His priestly and seminary formation took place at the Pacific Regional Seminary in Suva, Fiji, and at Catholic and Salesian Theological Colleges in Melbourne.

Fr. Mosese was ordained as a priest on December 3, 1994, at St. John Bosco Church in Sinamoga, Apia. 

His service record is impressive, having held positions such as Acting Parish Priest at St. John Bosco Parish in Sinamoga, Principal of Don Bosco Technical College in Alafua, Rector and Novice Master at Don Bosco Formation House in Suva, and Founding Principal of Don Bosco College in Salelologa. 

He also served as Parish Priest at St. Francis de Sales Parish in Salelologa and St. Paul Parish in Massey and Ranui, West Auckland.