The Catholic Churches in Kerala expressed their immense gratitude towards the government of India for their efforts and hard work behind the release of Fr. Tom Uzhunnalil, the priest who was held captive in Yemen for more than one-and-a-half years by terrorists. The Church thanked the Union government of India and Ministry of Affairs for their tireless efforts to ensure the safety of Fr. Tom Uzhunnalil.
As reported by timesofindia.com, Fr. Varghese Vallikkatt, Deputy Secretary General of the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council remarked that “It is a great news for the Christian community and every Indian, the efforts to rescue Uzhunnalil reflects the capacity of the people to rise above political and religious difference and come together for the sake of humanity.” Further, he added, “We were shocked when we saw his condition, he was so week but we had hope, we held faith and now he is safe.”
Many prayers and Holy Masses were conducted by different communities for this speedy rescue and well-being of the priest during the captivity period of Fr. Tom Uzhunnalil.
