The Salesian Province of Tiruchy entered a renewed phase of leadership as the Rector Major had recently announced the appointment of Fr. Doss Kennedy as the sixth Provincial of the Salesian Province of Our Lady of Valankanni (INT), for the term 2026-32. On the 3rd January, 2026, the Province of Tiruchy formally welcomed Fr. Doss Kennedy, the new Provincial, during a solemn Eucharistic celebration, at Don Bosco Alaihal Media Centre in Tiruchy. The installation ceremony, marked by joy and enthusiasm, drew together Salesians, collaborators and members of the Salesian Family.
The Holy Eucharist was presided over by Fr. Biju Michael, the General Councillor for South Asia, in the presence of Provincials and delegates from across the Region. The readings for the Mass were taken from the Gospel of St. John, chapter 15, on the vine and the branches, and from the First Letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians, chapter 13 on love. The new Provincial had chosen these readings keeping with his motto: “Together as Pilgrims to Rejuvenate Salesian Life and Mission.” Reflecting on them Fr. Biju Michael focused on the unbreakable bond of love that joined us to Jesus Christ, the true vine, who empowered us to bear fruits that are eternal. In his view it is this love that has the capacity to rejuvenate us.
A cultural and felicitation programme followed the liturgical celebration. School girls from AMSAM Salesian parish welcomed the gathering with a classical dance. The Novices of the FMAs presented an exceptional song and dance programme too. On behalf of the Province, Fr. John Dharman felicitated both Fr. Agilan, the outgoing Provincial, and Fr. Doss Kennedy the incoming Provincial. Fr. Agilan, in his farewell talk, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Salesians, collaborators, and members of the Salesian Family for their great support throughout his tenure.
The new Provincial, in his talk, fondly remembered his own vocation story and thanked the gathering for their presence in huge number and their prayerful support on this special occasion. He mentioned that his intention was to focus on the poorest of the poor during his tenure. He also added that every word in his motto was a result of his deep reflection and that, for want of time, he would elaborate on them later in his Provincial Circulars.
The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks from Fr. John Barnabas, a Provincial Councillor and the local Rector, who acknowledged all who contributed to the day’s success. The event was not only a moment of transition of leadership, but also of prayer and rejuvenation of the mission of Don Bosco in the Tiruchy Province.
