Dimapur, 10 August 2023 — A momentous occasion unfolded at the Selesian Provincial House in Dimapur as the province joyfully welcomed Fr. Paul Vernal SDB, the first missionary from the Dimapur Province to serve in Africa. Fr. Paul, hailing from Kenya, arrived in Dimapur on 10 August 2023, amidst heartfelt greetings and camaraderie from his Salesian community.
Fr. Paul Vernal, a dedicated missionary from the East African Province (AFE), is presently stationed at the Provincial House in Nairobi, where he assumes the role of confessor. His journey as a missionary to Africa began in 1990, when he left the Dimapur Province for Nairobi, Kenya, and subsequently Sudan, at a time when the two countries were united.
His missionary calling took shape as an offering of himself after completing 25 years of religious life within the Dimapur Province. During this pivotal phase, Late Fr. Thomas Panekezham SDB served as the regional superior, while Rt. Rev. Egidio Vigano was the Rector Major. Fr. Scaria Nedumala SDB held the position of the provincial superior in Dimapur.
Prior to embarking on his African mission, Fr. Paul served in various capacities within the Dimapur Province. His journey included stints at St. Paul Seminary in Shillong from 1967 to 1970, where he pursued theological studies between 1970 and 1974. After his ordination, he was stationed in Wokha as an assistant parish priest from 1974 to 1976.
Fr. Paul’s journey continued with his role as Hostel Warden In-charge at St. Anthony’s College, Stephen Hall from 1976 to 1983. He then transitioned to Golaghat, where he served as Rector and parish priest from 1983 to 1986. During this period, he also engaged as a member of the diocesan synod. In 1987, he was stationed at CPC Kohima alongside the late Fr. Thomas Vattoth SDB. Returning to Wokha in 1988, he served as Rector and Parish Priest until January 1990, when he embarked on his African mission.
Throughout his time in Africa, Fr. Paul assumed various roles, serving as an administrator, provincial secretary, philosophy teacher, director of pre-novices, rector, and DBYES (Don Bosco Youth Empowerment Services) in-charge. He presently resides in Upper Hills within the Don Bosco Provincial House.
Reflecting on his missionary vocation, Fr. Paul considers it a profound gift emerging from his religious profession. In an interview with the Province’s Webmaster, he underscored that he embraced his calling to be a missionary, leaving behind his familiar surroundings for the greater purpose of service.
During his time spent in the province, he would explore locations such as Wokha, Kohima, Zubza, Dimapur, Tinsukia, Amguri, Jorhat, and Golaghat. These are some of the places where he has previously served. He will also visit some of the formation houses.
The Selesian Province of Dimapur stands united in support and celebration of Fr. Paul Vernal SDB’s pioneering journey, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the province’s missionary outreach.
(IND Webmaster)
