Accra: Indian-born Salesian priest Fr. Sony Joseph Pottenplackal has officially taken up the role of Provincial Economer for the Salesians of Don Bosco West Africa South (AOS) Province, recalling his 12 years of missionary service in Liberia as a period of deep meaning and fulfillment in his priestly life.
The AOS Province covers Liberia, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Togo, and Ivory Coast, and as Economer, Fr. Pottenplackal will oversee financial stewardship, administrative operations, and the management of Salesian institutions across these countries. His new role requires him to relocate from Liberia to Ghana, the administrative hub of the Province.
Reflecting on his time in Liberia during a farewell Mass at Our Lady of Lebanon Parish in Monrovia on September 14, Fr. Pottenplackal said his years there were “the most meaningful period” of his priestly ministry. He emphasized that his mission had never been about holding titles or positions but about being present and accompanying young people through their challenges.
During his tenure in Liberia, he served in several leadership capacities including Parish Priest, Rector of the Salesian Mission, Principal of Don Bosco Technical High School, and Project Coordinator for development initiatives. Among his major achievements were the introduction of a solar energy project, the groundwork for a youth rehabilitation center in Virginia on the outskirts of Monrovia, and the launch of skills training programs in prisons aimed at helping inmates reintegrate into society.
He was also appointed by Archbishop Gabriel Blamo Snosio Jubwe of Monrovia as a member of the College of Consultors, a canonical advisory body that assists in diocesan governance.
In his new capacity as Provincial Economer, Fr. Pottenplackal will be responsible for ensuring financial accountability and sustainability of Salesian projects across the AOS Province. His previous experience in implementing education, energy, and rehabilitation programs in Liberia is expected to strengthen ongoing and future Salesian missions in the region.
Observers note that while his departure from Liberia leaves a significant gap, the initiatives he spearheaded, particularly in education and social reintegration, continue to impact local communities and stand as a testament to his dedication to Salesian service.