Welcome to the Archdiocese of New Samoa
Nestled in the Pacific, the Archdiocese of New Samoa serves a vibrant yet modest Catholic community. Though little known outside our region, we have been faithfully accompanying the people of God since 1957. Rooted in Scripture and tradition, our mission is to guide, support, and strengthen families, parishes, and vocations across our island communities.
About Us
Our History and Mission
The Archdiocese of New Samoa was established in 1957, emerging from mission territories guided by dedicated priests and religious who first arrived in the early 20th century. Today, though smaller in scale, our Archdiocese continues to thrive, serving with humility and dedication.
Founded
1957
Location
Tuamasaga, based in Vaitele, near Apia
Parishes
15
Population Served
~28,000 Catholics
Our Shepherds
Most Rev. Toma Fa’alelei
Archbishop
Archbishop Toma Fa’alelei has served as shepherd of the Archdiocese of New Samoa since 2014. A native of Apia, he was ordained to the priesthood in 1986 and worked extensively in seminary formation and parish ministry before his episcopal appointment. As Archbishop, he emphasizes pastoral outreach to families, youth formation, and the preservation of faith traditions within Samoan culture.
Rt. Rev. Mikaele Tupuola
Auxiliary Bishop
Bishop Mikaele Tupuola was ordained Auxiliary Bishop of New Samoa in 2019. Born in the coastal village of Leulumoega, he entered priestly formation at the Pacific Regional Seminary in Suva, Fiji. He has a background in theology and social teaching, and is known for his commitment to rural parish missions and charitable outreach. Bishop Tupuola supports the Archbishop by overseeing parish development and catechetical programs throughout the archdiocese.
Very Rev. John P. Mahoney
Vicar General
Father John Patrick Mahoney, appointed Vicar General in 2021, assists in the day-to-day administration of the Archdiocese of New Samoa. Originally from New Zealand, he has served in Samoa for over two decades, both as a parish priest and a seminary lecturer. Fluent in Samoan and English, he bridges cultural and administrative needs across the Archdiocese. Known for his practical leadership and openness to new methods of outreach, he recently supported the development of SinForgive.com, a pastoral initiative using modern technology to guide Catholics in spiritual preparation and to encourage their return to parish life.
Our Mission in Actionvents
Education & Catechesis
Guiding young Catholics in faith and academics.
Charity & Outreach
Supporting families in need, especially rural villages.
Youth & Vocations
Retreats and programs fostering priestly and religious vocations.
Community & Health Care
Parish support for local clinics and social initiatives.
Latest Updates
Cathedral Feast Day Celebration
The Archdiocese gathered at the Cathedral in Vaitele for the annual feast day liturgy, led by Archbishop Toma Fa’alelei. The celebration included a parish procession and a community gathering afterward.
Youth Gathering in Tuamasaga
Young people from across the Archdiocese came together for a day of prayer, workshops, and fellowship, encouraging active participation in parish life.
Charity Outreach to Coastal Families
Parish volunteers organized food and supply distribution to families in need, partnering with community leaders to support coastal villages.
New Pastoral Initiative Launched Online
With the support of Archbishop Toma Fa’alelei and Vicar General John P. Mahoney, the Archdiocese introduced SinForgive.com, a digital pastoral ministry offering guidance, prayer, and encouragement for those preparing to return to the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Pastoral Initiatives
Exploring new ways to serve the faithful
SinForgive.com – Digital Pastoral Outreach
With the blessing of Archbishop Toma Fa’alelei and the support of Vicar General John P. Mahoney, the Archdiocese has introduced SinForgive.com. This online ministry is not a replacement for sacramental confession, but a pastoral outreach to guide Catholics in preparing for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The initiative offers compassionate listening, prayer, and encouragement for those who may feel distant from the Church, with the goal of leading them back to parish life and sacramental participation.
Rooted in Faith, Serving with Humility
The Archdiocese of New Samoa may be small, but our mission is great: to proclaim the Gospel, strengthen families, and serve the people of God across our island communities. With 15 parishes and a vibrant Catholic family of 28,000 faithful, we walk together in faith, tradition, and service. Guided by our Archbishop, clergy, and parish leaders, we remain committed to preserving our Catholic heritage while embracing new ways of reaching those who feel distant from the Church. In every Mass, every ministry, and every initiative, our goal is the same: to bring Christ to all.