It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Fr. Yohanes Sono Pribadi, SCJ, who peacefully departed this world on the morning of August 27, 2024, at approximately 4:30 AM, at the Good Shepherd Monastery in Gisting, Lampung, Indonesia. He was 74 years old.
Born on June 6, 1950, Fr. Yohanes was ordained a priest on February 21, 1979, in his hometown of Metro, Lampung Tengah, Indonesia. Initially serving as a diocesan priest for the Diocese of Lampung, he later discerned his calling to the Congregation of the Priests of the Sacred Heart (SCJ), influenced by his deep devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, instilled by his father.
Fr. Yohanes made his first profession of vows on July 20, 1980, and his final profession in 1983. He began his ministry as a Parish Priest in Belitang, South Sumatra, followed by assignments in Muara Bungo, Jambi, and the Philippines. In 1989, he arrived in the Philippines as part of the first SCJ group to establish a mission in the country.
During his 13 years in the Philippines, Fr. Yohanes ministered in various parishes and played a significant role in the formation of young men discerning their vocation to the priesthood. Upon returning to Indonesia, he continued his ministry as a parish priest in Kotabumi, Lampung, and later served in Jakarta and Pasangsurut.
In 2014, Fr. Yohanes returned to the Philippines and served as the superior of the Novitiate Fr. Dehon in Lower Lucoban, Dumalinao, Zamboanga del Sur. He tended to the community’s garden and coffee plantation, a task he greatly enjoyed. After suffering a stroke, he returned to Indonesia, where he spent his final years.
Fr. Yohanes will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his priestly ministry, his missionary spirit, and his deep love for the Sacred Heart of Jesus. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, and devotion that will continue to inspire those who knew him.
Let us pray for the eternal repose of Fr. Yohanes’ soul. May he find peace in the arms of our Lord!