Episcopal Ordination of Mgr Simon Samendra Mani, MSC
Saturday August 10, 2024
On May 2, 2024, the Holy See announced the appointment of Reverend Father Simon Samendra Mani, MSC, presently serving as Rector of the Pacific Regional Seminary in Suva, Fiji, as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Tarawa and Nauru. This important ecclesiastical decree was made public in the Vatican’s Daily Bulletin at noon, Rome time, marking a significant moment for the Catholic communities of Kiribati and Nauru.
Born on March 27, 1968, in Labasa, Fiji, Bishop-elect Mani is the eldest of four siblings. His upbringing in the rural sugarcane district of Nagigi, Labasa, was deeply rooted in the faith traditions of his Indo-Fijian ancestors, descendants of indentured labourers brought to Fiji by the British to work on plantations. His spiritual formation was heavily influenced by his devout parents, particularly his mother, whose steadfast guidance played a pivotal role in nurturing his vocation to the priesthood. His early academic years were shaped under the tutelage of the Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary (SMSM) at Holy Family Secondary School and the Montfort Brothers of St. Gabriel. Furthermore, the Columban Fathers in Fiji and Sr. Francis Hardiman, SMSM, were instrumental in steering him towards his religious calling.
In 1989, he commenced his religious formation with the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart (MSC). A year later, he entered the MSC novitiate on Abemama Island, Kiribati, where he took his first religious vows on January 25, 1991. His seminary formation was completed at the Pacific Regional Seminary in Suva, culminating in his ordination to the priesthood on November 30, 1996, at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Suva.
Throughout his priestly ministry, Bishop-elect Mani has undertaken numerous pastoral and administrative roles, including assignments as assistant parish priest, parish priest, principal of the Chevalier Training Centre, and bursar for the MSC Pacific region. In 2006, his leadership capabilities were recognised with his appointment as Superior of the MSC for the Pacific, a role he held for three consecutive three-year terms. In January 2018, he assumed the office of Rector of the Pacific Regional Seminary, a position he held with distinction until his episcopal elevation.
Bishop-elect Mani’s ties to the Diocese of Tarawa and Nauru run deep, having spent his novitiate in Kiribati and frequently visiting the islands during his tenure as MSC Superior. His appointment as bishop reinforces the historical connection between the diocese and the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart, who were foundational to establishing the Church in the region. The diocese, originally established by MSC missionaries from France, has been consistently overseen by MSC bishops, a tradition that continues with Bishop-elect Mani.
The Catholic faithful of Tarawa and Nauru had been eagerly awaiting the consecration of their new bishop, particularly in the wake of the passing of Bishop Paul Mea, MSC, and the untimely death of Bishop-elect Father Koru Tito due to kidney failure. Their anticipation culminated in a jubilant celebration upon the arrival of Bishop-elect Mani.
On July 27, his episcopal ordination took place at the Sports Complex in Betio, an event of great historical and spiritual significance. Thousands of attendees from across the Kiribati Archipelago, Nauru, and even the United States, Australia, and New Zealand participated in this momentous occasion. The ceremony was graced by the presence of several bishops of the Episcopal Conference of the Pacific (CEPAC), including Cardinal Soane Mafi, Archbishop Michael Reyan of Guam, Bishop Kolio Etuale of Pago Pago, and Cardinal John Ribat of Port Moresby. Their participation underscored the unity and strength of the Church in the Pacific region.
The day following his ordination, Bishop Mani celebrated his first Mass as bishop, during which he solemnly invited the diocesan clergy and religious to renew their promises of obedience and service. In a moving act of unity, he expressed his gratitude to Father Iona Tatau, who had served as Apostolic Administrator during the sede vacante, and encouraged the clergy to reconcile with him and among themselves, setting a tone of healing and solidarity at the outset of his episcopate.
The Diocese of Tarawa and Nauru, a cornerstone of MSC missionary history, continues to face significant challenges. Nevertheless, with Bishop Mani’s proven leadership and administrative expertise, there is renewed optimism for the future growth and revitalisation of the diocese and its clergy. The Catholic Church in Tarawa and Nauru, nurtured under the spiritual guidance of MSC bishops since its inception, will continue to thrive under his stewardship, ensuring the continuation of its rich ecclesial and missionary heritage.
Vito Kelekele, MSC
