Special to the Herald
Father Roland Emmanuel Duterte Pacudan, affectionately remembered by many as “the Singing Priest,” passed away suddenly on Feb. 16 at age 68.
He was born on Oct. 21, 1957, in Alicia, Bohol, Philippines. At age 9 he moved to Hawaii, where his life of faith and service would ultimately flourish.
Father Pacudan returned to the Philippines in 1970 to pursue his high school and college education at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in the Bohol province’s capital city, Tagbilaran. He completed his theological studies at Seminario Mayor de San Carlos in Cebu City.
Father Pacudan was ordained a deacon for the Diocese of Tagbilaran in 1981. He returned to Hawaii in 1982 and was ordained to the priesthood a year later at Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Wahiawa, beginning a ministry that would span 26 years.
He faithfully served the Diocese of Honolulu and is especially remembered for his time as pastor of St. Jude Church in Kapolei from 1992-2001. During his tenure, he oversaw the dedication of the new church building in February 1999 — a significant milestone for the parish community.
Father Pacudan was also known for his compassion and dedication during his other assignments:
- Assisting deacon (1982) and associate pastor (1983-85) at Our Lady of Sorrows
- Associate pastor at St. Anthony Church, Kalihi, 1985
- Administrator at St. Roch Church, Nanakuli, 1985-87
- Associate pastor at St. Anthony Kalihi, 1987-90
- Administrator (1990) and pastor (1990-92) at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Waikane
- Rector at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace, downtown Honolulu, 2001-03
Father Pacudan retired from active ministry in 2003, but continued to serve in meaningful ways. He previously worked as the executive director for the Galilee Center for Human and Economic Development and also earned a master’s degree in education, graduating summa cum laude.
He was a gifted musician, singer, songwriter and a proud published author. During his earlier years in his priesthood, he could often be found sharing his love of music and life beyond the church — whether it was singing, creating or enjoying friendly tennis matches at Kapiolani Park with his cousins or uncles. His creativity, sense of humor and faith touched many lives.
Father Pacudan’s funeral Mass will take place March 30 at St. Jude Church. Visitation begins at 9 a.m., and Bishop Larry Silva will preside at the Mass at 10 a.m. Father Pacudan’s younger brother, Msgr. Jonathan Pacudan of the Philippines, will give the homily.
Burial will follow at 1 p.m. at Hawaiian Memorial Park in Kaneohe.