(ANS – Rome) – The Rector Major, with the consent of the General Council, on 3 December 2025 appointed Fr. Doss Kennedy as the sixth Provincial of the Salesian Province of Our Lady of Velankanni, Tiruchy (INT), for the six-year term 2026–2032, succeeding Fr. Agilan Sarprasadam, who has been serving as the Provincial.
Fr. Doss Kennedy was born on 20 June 1965 in Kovilpatti. He made his first profession on 24 May 1984 at Mount Don Bosco, Kotagiri, and after his initial formation, he professed perpetually on 24 May 1992 at Mary Help of Christians Parish, Tiruppattur. Following his theological formation at Kristu Jyoti College (KJC), Bangalore, he was ordained a priest on 29 December 1995 at St. Francis Xavier Church, Broadway.
Over the years, Fr. Kennedy has served the Province in a range of leadership and pastoral roles: Assistant Parish Priest, Dean of Studies, Parish Priest, Rector, Provincial Councillor, Delegate for Formation, Delegate for Youth Ministry, and Vice Provincial. He is currently the Rector of Don Bosco Renewal Centre, Bangalore. Known for his deep spirituality, warm hospitality, and capacity to accompany confreres and young people, he is widely admired across the Province.
The Salesian Province of Tiruchy (INT), inaugurated on 5 August 1999, has grown steadily over the past 25 years—from 148 confreres at its foundation to 251 today, including 170 priests, 5 Brothers, 75 Salesians in formation, and 8 novices. Its apostolic mission extends across 30 communities and includes 21 educational institutions (among them 5 technical institutes), 11 parishes, 5 homes for at‑risk youth, and 4 formation houses, including a College of Philosophy. Supported by vibrant groups of Past Pupils, Salesian Cooperators, and ADMA, the Province also animates specialized ministries such as career guidance, media training, catechetical animation, addiction awareness, and school counselling, embodying its long-standing commitment to serve the most marginalized youth.