Fr. Tom Uzhunnalil, Keralite Catholic priest who was recently released from the captivity of terrorists in Yemen, is expected to return to his homeland soon and said he would return to Kerala within 10 days and his delay in the journey is due to lack of passport. Fr. Tom also highlighted that when the home for the senior citizens was attacked, he identified himself as an Indian and was brought to another room while they killed the others, remembering this, Fr. Tom Uzhunnalil thanked the Lord Almighty for his clear mind, health and emotions till day.
As reported by manoramaonline.com, Fr. Tom Uzhunnalil remarked that “I thank God Almighty for this day, He saved me healthy enough, clear mind and Emotions are under control now. He has been extremely kind to me. No gun was pointed.” Further, he added, “I don’t know the kidnappers’ identities or affiliations and do not believe that their motive was ransom. In captivity I had enough freedom, within limits, of course, my captors asked me how old I was and when I replied, they told me ‘Don’t worry, you will live till 85.’”
Fr. Tom said that he never felt threatened by the terrorists and they moved him to different holding cells blindfolded yet did not harass him in any way and cared for him when he fell ill. He could get up and walk around as he pleased and they even asked the priest to exercise to feel better. During his captivity, Fr. Tom said that he prayed and exercised his mind by reciting Holy Mass by memory.
