Father Tom Uzhunnalil rescued from ISIS captivity in Yemen-Church thanks government for rescue

TNN

Kochi, 12 Sep 2017: When the video of Fr. Tom Uzhunnalil, who was held captive in Yemen, surfaced this May, his friends and family were taken aback by grief and concern over his frail appearance but held faith and in the end, their prayers were answered as Uzhunnalil was rescued on Tuesday.

 

"It’s great news for the Christian community and every Indian. He was held captive in Yemen for more than one and a half years. We would like to thank the Union government, the state government and Ministry of External Affairs, who worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of Father Tom," said Fr. Varghese Vallikkatt, Deputy Secretary General of the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council.

He said that effort to rescue Uzhunnalil reflects the capacity of the people to rise above political and religious difference and come together "for the sake of humanity".

 

"This is a joyous moment for Fr. Uzhunnalil’s family and myself. We have been conducting prayers for his safety and his well-being and the Lord has heard our prayers," Varapuzha archbishop, Joseph Kalathiparambhil.

 

During the period of Uzhunnalil captivity, several mass prayers were conducted by different communities for this speedy rescue and well-being.

 

"We were shocked, when we saw his condition, he was so week. But we had hope, we held faith and now he is safe," said Fr. Varghese Vallikkatt.

 

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