By Matters India Reporter
Kolkata: “Pray for others always.” This was what Salesian Father Tom Uzhunnalil, who spent 18 months in captivity in Yemen, told a group of Catholic nuns, students and teachers in Kolkata on February 21.
In his talk, the 59-year-old priest stressed the value of prayer especially invoked for others. His release is proof of the effect of prayers by millions of people around the world.
Father Uzhunnalil said that hurdles and troubles are part of discipleship. One can overcome them if he or she has a strong faith.
He was kidnapped by Yemeni militants from an home for the elderly in Aden on March 4, 2016. The militants killed 16 workers, including four Missionary of Charity Sisters. The world had no clue about his whereabouts for 557 days. He was released on September 12, 2017.
Father Uzhunnalil said that God spared his life since he was not worthy to be a martyr. However, God has a special mission for him – to share his experience with others as has been doing since his release.
He reiterated that his captors had cared for him, providing food and medicines.
Father Uzhunnalil arrived in Kolkata on February 17 for a 10-day visit.
He would visit several religious convents, Catholic schools and institutions to share his experience in Yemen.
On February 24 he will interact with the confreres at Don Bosco Park Circus.
Archbishop Thomas D’Souza of Calcutta will organize a thanksgiving Mass on February 25 at Auxilium Parish, Kolkata.
Fr. Uzhunnalil will also offer Mass at the tomb of Mother Teresa at 4 pm on February 26. He will also visit Bandel and Krishnagar before returning to Bangalore on February 28.