Speaking on behalf of the Catholic Community in American Samoa, Bishop Peter Brown said, “I would like to offer sincere sympathy to the family and extended family of Lealaifuaeva Reid on the news of his sad passing.
“Though new in the territory I am well aware of the huge contribution of this man of God to his community.
“It is fitting the he passes in this year dedicated to the year of Mercy.
“Pope Francis challenges all Christians to be missionaries of mercy. Lealaifuaeva was certainly a living example of a merciful heart.
“A great love in his life was his parish of Iliili and his generosity is remembered in the Diocese and throughout the Territory.
“Aue ua maliliu toa, ua maumau ai aupega ole taua! May he rest in the peace of the Lord.”
Lealaifuaneva passed away Saturday morning at his home in Nanakilo, Hawaii at the age of 84.
