The Bishop of the Diocese of Samoa-Pago Pago has announced the Pope’s appointment of the first Samoan to become bishop of the local Catholic Church.
“Today, the 4th August, the Feast of St John Vianney, the Holy Father Pope Francis announced on Vatican Radio in Rome that Father Kolio Etuale, Chancellor and Parish Priest of Holy Family Parish Tafuna has been chosen to be the Coadjutor Bishop of the Diocese,” said Bishop Peter Brown.
On the retirement of Bishop Peter Brown, Bishop-Elect Kolio Etuale will become bishop of the Diocese.
Father Kolio Etuale, 49, is the son of Tumanuvao Etuale Felise of Lotofaga, Samoa & Maniva Palala (deceased) of Moata’a, Samoa.
His adopted parents in American Samoa are Tumanuvao Kelekolio Tumanuvao & Monika Etuale of Iliili
Fr Kolio was ordained a priest in American Samoa,in 2003.
He has served in the parishes of Leone, Iliili, Futiga and Asili and has held numerous leadership positions including Director of Religious Vocations.
A graduate of Marist Brothers High School, he has a BA in Philosophy and Master of Divinity from Mt Angel Seminary. He is presently studying for his doctorate in pastoral ministry.
The Catholic Community of American Samoa, his family and friends join together in congratulating Bishop-Elect Kolio Etuale, a son of Samoa, on being appointed to serve in this new role and look forward to his consecration on November 4th the Feast of St Charles Borromeo.
