Hundreds of devout Catholics, priests and Bishops from around the world attended the ordination of Father Kolio Etuale, as the Coadjutor Bishop of the Diocese of Samoa Pago Pago held in American Samoa.
In Attendance from Samoa were Head of State, le Afioga ole Ao Mamalu ole Malo, Tuimalealiifano Vaalrtoa Sualauvi II, Masiofo Leinafo; former Head of State, his highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi and Masiofo Filifilia and Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa.
Samoa News reported that in August, the Vatican chose Father Kolio Etuale as the first local Samoan Bishop for the Diocese of Samoa Pago Pago in American Samoa.
The celebration was held on Friday at Fatu-o-Aiga which started off with a mass with three co-consecrator, most Reverend Bishop Peter Hugh Brown CS.S.R.; most Reverend Novatus Rugambwa Apostolic Delegate; Archbishop Alapati Mataeliga. While concelebrant was conducted by Archbishop Peter Ching Loy Chong of Fiji.
Fr Etuale was educated by the Marist Brothers, graduated with a BA in Philosophy and Master of Divinity from Mt Angel Seminary, and was ordained as a priest in American Samoa in May 2003. He is currently completing his Doctorate in Pastoral Ministry.
He has worked extensively in parishes and schools throughout the Diocese for 19 years, also serving on different Diocesan organisations. He was appointed the Chancellor of the Diocese in 2021.
Bishop Kolio in his written statement thanked all the guests, bishops and priests from Oceania, Church leaders, government leaders, family, and friends.
He also acknowledged his parents, family, friends, church communities and villages of Lotofaga, Gagaifolevao Lefaga, and Moata’a of Samoa, my village of Ili’ili of American Samoa for their endless support, love and prayers.
“It is without a doubt that your love and prayers have blessed me throughout my life.”
