Samoa is in mourning following the passing of the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Samoa-Apia and Ecclesiastical Superior of the Mission sui iuris of Tokelau, His Grace Archbishop Alapati Lui Mataeliga. The beloved leader of the Catholic Church in Samoa passed away on April 25, 2023, in New Zealand at the age of 70.
Archbishop Mataeliga was known for his unwavering commitment to serving his people and his leadership qualities, which were admired by both church and government leaders. His contributions to the Catholic faith and his support for various government initiatives, including education, health, and national emergency responses, earned him the respect and admiration of many.
At his funeral on May 6, 2023, leaders from both the church and government paid tribute to Archbishop Mataeliga’s life and legacy. Prime Minister Fiamē Naomi Mataʻafa praised his commitment to serving the people of Samoa and his principles, saying that he was “a leader of principles, and a man of God who interceded for peace, love, and unity. He radiated hope where there was despair, light where there was darkness, guidance when we appeared to falter in finding our way.”
Former Head of State, Tupua Tamasese Efi, also eulogized Archbishop Mataeliga, highlighting his courage and boldness during a peaceful protest in 1994 against a tax introduced by the government. Father Mataeliga joined the front row of the march and raised a huge bible ahead of them, and the peaceful march was successfully carried out.
Archbishop Mataeliga was born to Lauiliu Utu Vaoliko Mata’eliga and Vaoliko Sui Panitaleo Mata’eliga. He began his academic life at Sataua Primary School in Savai’i and then attended Channel College in 1965. He graduated from Channel College and then went to the Catholic Theological Seminary in Fiji and was ordained in 1977 as a priest.
Upon the retirement of Cardinal Pio Taofinu’u, Father Mataeliga was appointed by the Holy See as the second Archbishop of Samoa-Apia. He was ordained for the presbyterate of the Diocese of Samoa and Tokelau on July 5, 1977.
In his 19 years as Archbishop, Archbishop Mataeliga made significant contributions to the Catholic Church in Samoa and the wider Pacific region. He was an advocate for social justice and worked tirelessly to address issues affecting the most vulnerable members of society.
The loss of Archbishop Mataeliga is deeply felt by the people of Samoa, who will remember him for his dedication to serving his people and his unwavering commitment to his faith. He will be greatly missed but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations in Samoa and beyond.