The Diocese of Samoa is mourning the loss of their spiritual leader, Archbishop Alapati Mataeliga, who passed away at the age of 70. His death has left the community in a state of shock, as he was a beloved figure who had served in his position as the Archbishop of Samoa-Apia for over two decades.
Archbishop Mataeliga was born on January 4th, 1953, in the hamlet of Sataua, located on the island of Savai’i. He was ordained as a presbyter in the Diocese of Samoa and Tokelau on July 5, 1977, and served in that capacity until he was appointed as Archbishop of Samoa-Apia on November 16, 2002, following the resignation of Cardinal Pio Taofinu’u.
During his tenure as Archbishop, he was known for his commitment to promoting social justice, human rights, and the welfare of the people of Samoa. He was also a strong advocate for the rights of the indigenous people of Samoa, and he played a critical role in mediating conflicts between the government and traditional leaders.
The news of his passing has been met with an outpouring of grief from both the Catholic community and the wider Samoan community. Bishop Peter H. Brown of the Diocese of Samoa in Pago Pago released a statement expressing his condolences to the people and government of Samoa, saying, “We, the Bishop’s, Priests, Deacons, and Catechists, and people of the Diocese of Samoa Pago Pago offer our heartfelt prayers and sympathy to the people and government of Samoa.”
At present, no dates for the funeral service have been confirmed by the authorities, while the Bishop is currently in Auckland, New Zealand. But below is a program posted on St Joseph’s Catholic Parish, Grey Lynn’s Facebook page which indicates that his body is still in Auckland, NZ. Here is the program posted earlier today by Fr. Iosefo Timu MF.
Memorial Program for Archbishop Alapati Lui Mataeliga
Wednesday 26th April to Friday 28th April
- 6pm Eucharistic Celebration at the funeral home of ESE Tatupu, 18 Norman Spencer Dr. Manukau.
Saturday 29th April
- 10am: Arrival of the body at St. Joseph’s Parish, 470 Great North Road Grey Lynn Auckland for Exposition and Adoration of the Holy Eucharist, Rosary and Chaplet of Divine Mercy Prayers
- 1pm: Celebration of the Holy Eucharist.
Sunday 30th April
- 3pm: Arrival of the body at the Carmelite Monastery, 636 Mt. Albert Road Auckland
- 4pm: Celebration of the Holy Eucharist
Please note that this schedule is subject to change, and updates will be posted as necessary.
The Samoan community is mourning the loss of this beloved figure who dedicated his life to promoting the values of the Gospel and serving the people of Samoa. Bishop Peter Brown praised Archbishop Mataeliga’s dedication to his faith and the people of Samoa, saying, “He was a true servant of God who dedicated his life to promoting the values of the Gospel and serving the people of Samoa. His tireless efforts in promoting social justice and human rights will be sorely missed, but his legacy will live on through the many lives he touched.”
The passing of Archbishop Mataeliga marks the end of an era for the Catholic Church in Samoa. He was a visionary leader who worked tirelessly to promote the values of the Gospel and improve the lives of the people of Samoa. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Samoans to work towards a better, more just society.
As we mourn the loss of this beloved figure, let us take comfort in the knowledge that he has left behind a rich legacy of service and devotion to his faith and his people. Let us honour his memory by continuing to work towards the ideals of social justice and human rights that he held so dear.
