Augustinian Father Edward Daleng appointed new vice regent of Pontifical Household
Pope Leo XIV has appointed Father Edward Daniang Daleng of the Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A.) as the new vice regent of the Prefecture of the Pontifical Household, marking a moment of pride for the Augustinian community and the Nigerian Catholic Church. The Vatican announced the appointment on Monday, describing Father Daleng as a figure known for his scholarship, humility, and long service to the Church.
Before his appointment, Father Daleng served as General Counsellor and Procurator General of the Augustinian Order, where he played a key role in coordinating the congregation’s missions across different continents. His selection is seen as a recognition of his pastoral leadership and his contribution to strengthening moral theology and missionary formation within the Order.
Born on April 4, 1977, in Yitla’ar, Kwalla, in Nigeria’s Plateau State, Father Daleng entered the Order of Saint Augustine in 2001, making his first religious profession that same year. He took his solemn vows in 2004 and was ordained to the priesthood on September 10, 2005. His academic journey led him to the Alphonsian Academy in Rome, where he earned a Doctorate in Moral Theology in 2012.
Throughout his vocation, Father Daleng has been deeply engaged in theological education and pastoral guidance. He has taught at seminaries and served as a mentor to young clergy, emphasizing ethical reflection, community service, and the integration of faith into daily life. His work within the Order has been characterized by a blend of intellectual depth and compassionate leadership.
The role of vice regent of the Pontifical Household involves assisting the Prefect in coordinating the daily activities and ceremonies of the Holy See, including papal audiences, diplomatic receptions, and liturgical events. Father Daleng’s new position places him at the heart of Vatican life, where he will support the pope in his engagements with both Church leaders and visiting dignitaries.
In an earlier interview with Vatican media, Father Daleng shared his admiration for Pope Leo XIV’s close relationship with the African continent. “He has Africa in his heart,” Father Daleng said. “He has visited all our missions several times and has come to Nigeria on many occasions, including in 2016, when we celebrated the intermediate General Chapter.”
His appointment has been widely welcomed in Nigeria, where Church leaders praised it as a reflection of the growing global recognition of African clergy within the Catholic hierarchy. Local Augustinian communities described Father Daleng as a man of prayer, discipline, and quiet service.
As he takes on his new duties at the Vatican, Father Daleng is expected to continue promoting the Augustinian values of community, truth, and love for God, bringing both his African roots and theological expertise to one of the Church’s most respected institutions.
