Reading this rending appeal by Father Tom Uzhunnalil, I think of Asia Bibi too, a Pakistani Catholic mother, now in her seventh year of captivity. She, too, is not European, only a poor woman. I think of the clergy and faithful imprisoned in China for their Faith. I pray for Asia Bibi everyday and for the Church in China. I will add another forgotten one Father Tom Uzhunnalil to my prayers.
Catholic Online: Now, the day after Christmas, Fr. Tom has appeared in a video made by his captors. His statements are painful to hear. It is obvious that Fr. Tom’s captors are wearing him down and he is losing hope.
“If I were a European priest, I would have been taken more seriously. I am from India. I am perhaps not considered of much value,” Fr. Tom said in the video.
“Dear Pope Francis, dear Holy Father, as a father please take care of my life. I am very much depressed. My health is deteriorating… I am very sad that nothing has been done seriously.”
“I am from India and not considered. Dear people, I pray you all, ask you all, beg you all to do your might to help me to save my life. I need hospitalization soon. Please come to my help quickly,” Fr. Tom begged. More here.
