Dimapur 20 July 2023: In a heart-warming homecoming, Fr. Sony Joseph Pottenplackal SDB, a dedicated missionary based in Liberia, returned to his mother province of St. Francis De Sales, Dimapur. His visit, which spans from July 19 to 25, 2023, has been met with immense joy and enthusiasm among his fellow confreres.
Fr. Sony’s arrival at the Dimapur airport was marked by a warm reception, with Fr. John Paul Vemo SDB, the secretary of the Province, extending a heartfelt welcome.
As part of his visit, Fr. Sony addressed the confreres of Don Bosco Provincial House with a good night talk. He shared inspiring anecdotes and experiences from his mission in Liberia, where he has been serving since leaving India in 2012. It is noteworthy that his last visit to the mother province was in 2018, making this reunion all the more special.
In his goodnight message, Fr. Sony emphasized the importance of being proclaimers of God’s love, no matter where they are sent. This message struck a chord with the assembled gathering, resonating with the Salesian spirit of selfless service and dedication.
The next day, Fr. Sony presided over the Holy Eucharist and delivered a compelling sermon centered on the necessity of carrying the cross given by the Lord. Drawing inspiration from the words of St. Augustine, he compared the burden of the cross to the wings of a bird. Just as a bird without its wings cannot fulfil its purpose, the carrying of the cross enables individuals to carry out their apostolate effectively.
Currently stationed in Monrovia, Liberia, Fr. Sony plays a significant role in the Salesian community. In Liberia, there are three Salesian communities, namely Monrovia, Matadi, and Tappita, which are comprised of a total of 11 Salesians.
These Salesian communities are actively engaged in various works, including managing three parishes, three schools, two youth centers, prison ministry, and conducting training programs. Fr. Sony, in particular, serves as the rector and parish priest of Don Bosco 8th Street, Monrovia.
During his stay in the mother province, Fr. Sony has planned visits to the formation houses, including Zubza novitiate, Rua Home, Jorhat; Amguri – Pre-novitiate house, and Salesian College – Dimapur. This will allow him to interact with fellow Salesians and inspire the younger generation of missionaries through his experiences and wisdom.
Fr. Sony Joseph Pottenplackal’s visit to St. Francis De Sales, Dimapur, serves as a testimony to the spirit of unity and brotherhood among Salesians worldwide. His dedication to the mission in Liberia and the Salesian community’s works there are a source of inspiration for many, reinforcing the Salesian commitment to serving the underprivileged and spreading God’s love to all corners of the world.
(IND Webmaster)
