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Tiruchy, January 3, 2026

Fr. Doss Kennedy Installed as New Provincial of Salesian Province of Tiruchy

6 January 2026

Appointments, Profiles,

News written by: Fr. John Dharman SDB

The Salesian Province of Tiruchy entered a renewed phase of leadership with the formal installation of Fr. Doss Kennedy as the sixth Provincial of the Salesian Province of Our Lady of Valankanni (INT) for the term 2026–2032. The installation ceremony took place on 3 January 2026 during a solemn Eucharistic celebration at Don Bosco Alaihal Media Centre, marking a moment of joy, thanksgiving, and renewed missionary commitment.

The Holy Eucharist was presided over by Fr. Biju Michael, General Councillor for South Asia, in the presence of Provincials and delegates from across the region. Salesians, collaborators, and members of the wider Salesian Family gathered in large numbers, reflecting the significance of the occasion for the Province.

The liturgy featured readings from the Gospel of St. John (15:1–8), on the vine and the branches, and from the First Letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians (13:1–13), on love. These readings were personally chosen by the new Provincial in line with his motto, “Together as Pilgrims to Rejuvenate Salesian Life and Mission.” In his homily, Fr. Biju Michael reflected on the unbreakable bond of love that unites believers to Christ, the true vine, emphasising that this love empowers authentic fruitfulness and ongoing renewal in the religious life and mission.

A cultural and felicitation programme followed the liturgical celebration. Schoolgirls from the AMSAM Salesian parish welcomed the gathering with a classical dance, while the novices of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA) presented a vibrant song-and-dance performance. On behalf of the Province, Fr. John Dharman felicitated both the outgoing Provincial, Fr. Agilan, and the incoming Provincial, Fr. Doss Kennedy. In his farewell address, Fr. Agilan expressed deep gratitude to the Salesians, collaborators, and members of the Salesian Family for their unwavering support throughout his tenure.

In his first address as Provincial, Fr. Doss Kennedy warmly recalled his own vocation journey and thanked the assembly for their strong presence and prayerful support. He shared his intention to focus particularly on the poorest of the poor during his term and noted that each word of his chosen motto emerged from deep personal reflection.

The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks by Fr. John Barnabas, Provincial Councillor and local Rector, who acknowledged the collective efforts that made the day meaningful and memorable. The event marked not only a transition in leadership but also a moment of spiritual renewal and recommitment to the Salesian mission of Don Bosco in the Tiruchy Province.

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