Uluʻilakepa: The Journey to Bishop of Polynesia
The leadership of the Anglican Church in Polynesia is defined by a commitment to both spiritual guidance and cultural integration. The trajectory of Uluʻilakepa, from his early ordination to his elevation as Bishop of Polynesia, reflects a lifelong dedication to ministry across the diverse islands of the Pacific.
Early Ministry and Regional Service
Uluʻilakepa began his formal journey in the priesthood in 1992, when he was ordained by Bishop Jabez Bryce at St Paul's Anglican Church in Nukuʻalofa. His early years in the ministry were characterized by extensive regional service, providing spiritual leadership across several Pacific territories.
- Haʻapai, Tonga: Early parish service.
- Pago Pago, American Samoa: Parish service.
- Apia, Samoa: Parish service.
In 1995, he expanded his experience by moving to Suva, where he served as the assistant priest at Holy Trinity Cathedral.
Educational Leadership and Liturgical Innovation
Returning to Tonga in 2000, Uluʻilakepa took on multifaceted roles as a parish vicar, chaplain, and ministry trainer. He eventually became the principal at St Andrew's and transitioned into a role as a ministry educator for the diocese starting in 2013.
Between 2018 and 2023, he led the St John the Baptist Theological College as its principal. Beyond administration, he made significant contributions as a Common Life Liturgical Commissioner. In this role, he focused on the liturgy—the customary public worship performed by a religious group—by blending Polynesian traditions and symbols into Anglican practices. This work included translating eucharistic liturgies into Polynesian languages as part of the revision of the New Zealand Prayer Book.
Election and Consecration as Bishop
Following the death of Fereimi Cama in 2021, Uluʻilakepa was elected Bishop of Polynesia in December 2022. His consecration took place in March 2023 at Holy Trinity Cathedral, conducted by ACANZP co-primates Philip Richardson and Don Tamihere.
The ceremony was a significant event, attended by Fijian president Wiliame Katonivere and his wife. By virtue of his position as Bishop of Polynesia, Uluʻilakepa automatically serves as a co-primate of the church, holding the title and style of an archbishop.
Key Facts
- Ordination Year: 1992 by Bishop Jabez Bryce.
- Key Locations: Tonga, American Samoa, Samoa, and Fiji.
- Academic Leadership: Principal of St John the Baptist Theological College (2018–2023).
- Cultural Contribution: Integrated Polynesian symbols into Anglican liturgies and translated texts for the New Zealand Prayer Book.
- Current Status: Bishop of Polynesia and co-primate (Archbishop).
| Year/Period | Role/Achievement | Location/Institution |
|---|---|---|
| 1992 | Ordained to Priesthood | St Paul's Anglican Church, Nukuʻalofa |
| 1995 | Assistant Priest | Holy Trinity Cathedral, Suva |
| 2000 | Vicar, Trainer, and Principal | St Andrew's, Tonga |
| 2013 | Ministry Educator | Diocese of Polynesia |
| 2018–2023 | Principal | St John the Baptist Theological College |
| 2023 | Consecrated Bishop/Archbishop | Holy Trinity Cathedral |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who ordained Uluʻilakepa to the priesthood?
He was ordained in 1992 by Bishop Jabez Bryce at St Paul's Anglican Church in Nukuʻalofa.
What was Uluʻilakepa's contribution to the New Zealand Prayer Book?
As a Common Life Liturgical Commissioner, he helped translate eucharistic liturgies into Polynesian languages and integrated Polynesian traditions and symbols into Anglican liturgies.
Which theological college did Uluʻilakepa lead?
He served as the principal of St John the Baptist Theological College from 2018 to 2023.
Who succeeded Fereimi Cama as Bishop of Polynesia?
Uluʻilakepa was elected to succeed Fereimi Cama, who died in office in 2021.
What is Uluʻilakepa's current title within the church?
He is the Bishop of Polynesia and serves as a co-primate of the church with the title and style of an archbishop.