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By Sunny A. David, Onitsha
In a landmark appointment highlighting the growing prominence of African clergy within the Vatican, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV has named Rev. Fr. Edward Daniang Daleng, O.S.A., a Nigerian Augustinian priest, as the new Vice-Regent of the Prefecture of the Papal Household.
This significant role places Fr. Daleng at the heart of the Vatican’s administrative operations, assisting in the daily organization of the Pope’s schedule, audiences, and official ceremonies.
The Prefecture of the Papal Household (Prefettura della Casa Pontificia) is one of the Vatican’s oldest and most vital offices, ensuring that the Pope’s engagements proceed with precision, decorum, and respect for tradition.
As Vice-Regent, Fr. Daleng will work alongside Archbishop Leonardo Sapienza, C.R., the Prefect, to: Organize the Pope’s private and public audiences, including meetings with Heads of State, Diplomats, and Church Leaders. Coordinate official visits and papal ceremonies and Oversee the operations of the Papal Apartments and logistics surrounding the Holy Father’s daily life.
The position requires a rare combination of humility, administrative expertise, and diplomatic sensitivity, continuing a long tradition of clerics who serve in close proximity to the pontiff.
Born on April 4, 1977, in Yitla’ar, Plateau State, Nigeria, Fr. Edward Daniang Daleng embodies the union of deep faith and intellectual excellence.
A member of the Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A.), he was ordained in 2005 and went on to earn a Doctorate in Moral Theology from the Alphonsian Academy in Rome in 2012. His academic work is renowned for its insight into moral formation and ethical decision-making.
Before his new appointment, Fr. Daleng served as General Counsellor and Procurator General of his Order in Rome a position that required him to liaise between Augustinian provinces worldwide and represent the Order before the Holy See. His tenure was distinguished by sound financial management, canonical precision, and cross-cultural understanding.
Colleagues describe him as calm, prayerful, and quietly humorous qualities that will serve him well in the delicate environment of Vatican governance.
Fr. Daleng’s elevation carries deep symbolic meaning. Pope Leo XIV’s decision reflects the Vatican’s growing recognition of Africa’s theological and pastoral vitality, affirming that the universal Church draws strength from every continent.
In his new capacity, Fr. Daleng joins the select group of Vatican officials whose unseen yet essential work ensures the smooth operation of papal life. From state receptions to private audiences, the precision and grace of these events often reflect the Prefecture’s dedicated coordination.
As he begins this new chapter, Fr. Daleng brings with him the wisdom of his Order, the faith of his homeland, and a commitment to serving the unity and dignity of the Holy Father’s mission to the world.
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