Pope Leo XIV names Fr. Edward Daleng, O.S.A., as vice regent, highlighting his African ties and moral theology expertise amid Vatican reforms.
Newsroom (11/11/2025 Gaudium Press )In a move underscoring Pope Leo XIV’s deep affinity for Africa and his commitment to diversifying the Curia’s leadership, the pontiff has appointed Augustinian Father Edward Daleng, O.S.A., as the new vice regent of the Prefecture of the Pontifical Household. The announcement, made public by the Holy See Press Office on Monday, marks a significant elevation for the Nigerian-born cleric, who until now served as General Counsellor and Procurator General of the Order of Saint Augustine.
Father Daleng, 48, brings a wealth of experience in ecclesiastical administration and moral theology to the role, which involves overseeing the day-to-day operations of the papal household, including protocol for audiences, ceremonies, and diplomatic engagements. His appointment comes at a pivotal time for the Vatican, as Pope Leo XIV – the first American pope in history – continues to implement reforms aimed at fostering greater inclusivity and global representation within the Church’s central governance.
Born on April 4, 1977, in the rural village of Yitla’ar in Kwalla, Plateau State, Nigeria, Daleng grew up in a region marked by ethnic diversity and occasional religious tensions. His path to the priesthood began with the Order of Saint Augustine, a mendicant order founded in the 13th century and known for its emphasis on community life, education, and pastoral care. He made his first religious profession on November 9, 2001, followed by solemn vows on November 13, 2004. Ordained a priest on September 10, 2005, Daleng pursued advanced studies in Rome, earning a Doctorate in Moral Theology from the prestigious Alphonsian Academy in 2012. His dissertation, though not publicly detailed in the announcement, is believed to have focused on ethical issues in contemporary African contexts, aligning with the order’s global mission.
In his previous roles within the Augustinians, Daleng managed international affairs as Procurator General, representing the order in dealings with the Holy See and coordinating its worldwide apostolates. As General Counsellor, he advised on strategic decisions, including outreach in developing regions. Colleagues describe him as a bridge-builder, adept at navigating cultural divides – a skill that resonates with Pope Leo XIV’s own pastoral priorities.
Shortly after Leo XIV’s election in 2023, Father Daleng spoke candidly in an interview with Vatican Media about the pope’s personal connection to the African continent. “He has Africa in his heart,” Daleng said, recalling the former Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost’s frequent visits to Augustinian missions. “He has visited all our African missions several times and has come to my country, Nigeria, on at least ten occasions, including in 2016, when we celebrated for the first time the intermediate General Chapter.” These remarks highlight a longstanding relationship between the two men, forged through shared Augustinian ties – Prevost himself was a member of the order before his elevation to the episcopacy.
The appointment has been met with praise from African Catholic leaders, who see it as a nod to the continent’s growing influence in the universal Church. With over 200 million Catholics in Africa, representing one of the fastest-growing segments of the faith, Daleng’s role could amplify voices from the Global South in Vatican decision-making. Analysts note that this fits into Leo XIV’s broader agenda, which includes environmental advocacy, interfaith dialogue, and addressing migration – themes often rooted in his American upbringing and Augustinian formation.
Coinciding with the announcement is the release of a new documentary by the Vatican Dicastery for Communication, titled “Leo from Chicago.” The film traces the pope’s roots in his native United States, featuring archival footage, personal images, and in-depth interviews with family members, including his brothers Louis and John Prevost. Produced by journalists Deborah Castellano Lubov, Salvatore Cernuzio, and Felipe Herrera-Espaliat, the documentary explores Prevost’s journey from a working-class Chicago neighborhood to the papacy, emphasizing his Augustinian spirituality and early missionary experiences. It premiered on Vatican News platforms this week, offering viewers a rare glimpse into the personal life of the 267th successor to St. Peter.
As vice regent, Father Daleng will work closely with the prefect of the Pontifical Household, a position currently held by Archbishop Georg Gänswein, though sources indicate potential shifts in the Curia’s structure under Leo XIV. The role, while administrative, carries symbolic weight, positioning Daleng as a key figure in the pope’s inner circle.
Vatican observers suggest this appointment may signal further changes, as Leo XIV seeks to blend tradition with innovation. For now, Father Daleng’s elevation stands as a testament to the Church’s evolving global tapestry, where a priest from rural Nigeria now helps steer the heart of Catholicism from the halls of the Apostolic Palace.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican News
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