Pope Francis today prayed for the release of Salesian Father Tom Uzhunnalil, the Indian priest kidnapped in Yemen on March 4 by attackers who killed four Missionaries of Charity and 12 other people.
«In the hope that the Risen Christ gives us, I renew my call for the liberation of all people held hostage in zones of armed conflict. In particular, I want to recall the Salesian priest Tom Uzhunnalil, kidnapped in Aden, in Yemen, last March 4,» the Pope said at the end of today’s midday Regina Caeli, which he prayed with those gathered in St. Peter’s Square.
During Holy Week, it was widely rumored that Fr. Uzhunnalil was crucified on Good Friday.
However, the bishops’ conference of India later reported that the Indian government had assured them that the priest is still alive. Reportedly, the FBI, as well as the Vatican and Indian officials, are working for his release.
