By Staff Writer
Father Tumanuvao Etuale Felise, is to become the first Samoan Catholic Bishop appointed for American Samoa.
Father Felise will be ordained this weekend in a special Mass service at the Holy Family Cathedral, in the heartland of the Catholic Church at Fatu-o-Aiga in American Samoa.
The 49-year old priest is the son of Tumanuvao Etuale Felise of Lotofaga, Samoa, and the late Maniva Palala of Moata’a, Samoa, according to Talanei News online.
He was raised in Iliili, American Samoa, by his second parents, Tumanuvao Kelekolio Tumanuvao and Monika Etuale.
Fr. Father Etuale obtained his BA in Philosophy and Master of Divinity at Mt. Angel Seminary in Oregon.
He is studying for a doctorate in pastoral ministry and is expected to complete his studies next year.
On May 29, 2003, he was ordained a priest in American Samoa and has worked extensively in parishes throughout the diocese for 19 years.
He has been a Catholic educator for many years and an advocator for youth development. He was appointed Chancellor of the Diocese in 2021.
Fr Kolio is humbled by his appointment and has urged parishioners, families, and friends to pray for him in his new duties for the church.