The announcement of Fr. Mosese Vitolio Tui's appointment as the new Archbishop of Samoa has garnered widespread acclaim and congratulations, including from Samoa's Leader of Opposition, Tuilaepa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi. 

Speaking at his weekly press conference, Tuilaepa expressed his delight at the appointment, highlighting Fr. Mosese's illustrious career and contributions to the Catholic Church and Samoan community.

Fr. Mosese, a Salesian priest known for his warmth and sense of humor, has left a profound impact through his leadership roles at Don Bosco technical colleges in Alafua and Savai'i. 

Tuilaepa, who is a devoted Catholic, commended Fr. Mosese's ability to connect with congregations through his engaging sermons, noting, "Anyone who has a great sense of humor and uses that to send the message across is highly favoured by a lot of people."

The appointment comes as a significant development for Samoa's Catholic community, following the passing of Bishop Alapati Lui Mata’eliga in April 2023. Fr. Mosese's ordination ceremony is scheduled for August, with his arrival in Samoa anticipated on July 21, as confirmed by Fr. Spa Silva, Chancellor of the Catholic Church in Samoa.

Explaining the Church's protocol, Fr. Spa Silva stated that the installation ceremony must occur within three months of the official announcement. Fr. Mosese's extensive formation includes studies at institutions such as Auxilium College in Lysterfield, Victoria, Australian Catholic University in Melbourne, and pastoral training at various centers in Samoa and Fiji.

Born on November 9, 1961, at Tupua Tamasese Meaola Hospital in Moto'otua, Fr. Mosese embarked on his priesthood journey with his first profession as a Salesian of Don Bosco in 1987. He was ordained as a priest on December 3, 1994, at St. John Bosco Church in Sinamoga, Apia, marking the beginning of a distinguished career.

His service record spans key roles including Acting Parish Priest at St. John Bosco Parish, Principal of Don Bosco Technical College in Alafua, and Rector at Don Bosco Formation House in Suva. Fr. Mosese also served as the Founding Principal of Don Bosco College in Salelologa and held parish priest positions in Salelologa and St. Paul Parish in Massey and Ranui, West Auckland.