Kerala bishops concerned on priests uncertain situation in Yemen

Mangalore Today News Network

June 14, 2016: The KCBC, Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council has again expressed concern about the uncertainty over the release of Rev. Tom Uzhunnalil, the Salesian Father who was abducted by a terror group in Aden, Yemen.

 

“KCBC is very  concerned about prolonged uncertainty in the release of Rev Tom Uzhunnalil. We request the Central and state governments to continue better and  sincere efforts to make possible his safe release from captivity of militants in Yemen,” a press release said after a two-day meeting of the Catholic bishops in Kochi.

The Regional Councillor of the Salesian Congregation for South Asia, Rev Maria Arokiam Kanaga SDB has also expressed his deep anguish in not arriving at a speedy solution to this impasse about Rev Tom, a student of his.

Rev Kanaga had visited Aden a few years ago and seen personally the good work done by Rev Tom and by the Missionaries of Charity of Mother Theresa. It is unfortunate that their dedicated services to the poor and the sickly, irrespective of religious differences, have not been recognised for their merit. The Salesian Councillor thanked all those who are trying to get Fr. Tom released and requested them to redouble their efforts.

Minister of State for External Affairs, Gen V K Singh, had said last month in Kottayam, Kerala that there was no “death” report about the 57-year-old Salesian priest.