Vatican City: Pope Francis on April 10 appealed for the immediate release of Salesian Father Tom Uzhunnalil, who was taken captive on March 4 during the course of a murderous terror attack on a home for the elderly operated by the Missionaries of Charity in Yemen. The attackers killed 16 people, including four members of the congregation founded by Mother Teresa of Calcutta.
The specific appeal for the Salesian missionary priest immediately followed a general appeal for the immediate release of all persons taken captive in war zones, Vatican Radio reported.
“In the hope given us by the Risen Christ,” said Pope Francis to the great crowd of pilgrims and tourists gathered in St. Peter’s Square for the Regina coeli prayer on Sunday, “I renew my appeal for the liberation of all persons seized in areas of armed conflict: in particular, I desire to remember the Salesian priest, Tom Uzhunnalil, kidnapped at Aden in Yemen this past March 4th.”