Fr. Sony Joseph Pottenplackal, a Salesian priest originally from India, has been appointed as the new Provincial Bursar for the West Africa South Province, a region encompassing Liberia, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Togo, and Ivory Coast. His appointment marks a new chapter in his missionary journey, following twelve years of dedicated service in Liberia. During a farewell Mass held on September 14 at Our Lady of Lebanon Parish in Monrovia, Fr. Sony reflected on his time in the country, describing it as the most meaningful period of his priestly ministry. He emphasized that his mission was never about titles or recognition, but about being present and responsive to the needs of the youth and the wider community.
Throughout his tenure in Liberia, Fr. Sony played a pivotal role in advancing the Salesian mission, particularly in youth development and social outreach. He spearheaded several impactful initiatives, including the Salesian Solar Energy Project, which aimed to provide sustainable energy solutions, and a prison skills training program designed to rehabilitate and empower incarcerated youth. He also laid the foundation for a youth rehabilitation center in Virginia, near Monrovia, demonstrating a long-term commitment to nurturing hope and opportunity for vulnerable populations.
In addition to his pastoral duties, Fr. Sony held multiple leadership roles that strengthened the Salesian presence in Liberia. He served as Parish Priest, Rector of the Salesian Mission, Principal of Don Bosco Technical High School, and Project Coordinator for various youth-focused programs. His contributions extended beyond the Salesian community, earning him a place in the College of Consultors of the Catholic Archdiocese of Monrovia, a position he was appointed to by Archbishop Gabriel Blamo Snosio Jubwe. This recognition reflected his deep integration into the local church and his influence in shaping its pastoral and developmental priorities.
As he transitions into his new role as Provincial Bursar, Fr. Sony carries with him a legacy of service rooted in compassion, innovation, and unwavering dedication to the marginalized. His journey in Liberia stands as a testament to the transformative power of missionary work when guided by humility and purpose. The communities he served will remember him not only for the projects he led but for the spirit of hope and solidarity he embodied throughout his ministry.