In a statement issued by the Diocesan Centre for Media and filmed by UCANews, the Archbishop expressed his grief at the violent death of four Missionaries of Charity killed by extremists in Yemen.
"Officially invited by the Government of Yemen, the Sisters have rendered great service, taking care of lepers and the elderly. We pray that God may grant them eternal rest," said Fr Olavo Caiado, Director of the Centre.
"The Church in Goa prays also for the release and safe return of Fr Uzhunnalil, SDB, another son of our country, of whose whereabouts we know nothing. In 2012 the Salesians of Don Bosco completed 25 years of presence and service in Yemen" according to the statement.
"The diocese has also prayed that peace may return to the war torn regions of the Middle East and North Africa, where millions of fleeing refugees risk their lives to reach Europe. The bishops of those regions express the anguish of the people who have no choice but to leave the land of their ancestors. We earnestly pray that common sense will prevail and peace will be restored in that region," said Fr Caiado.
With the same intention – for peace and for the spiritual support of Fr Uzhunnalil – the Rector Major, Fr Ángel Fernández Artime, has invited the whole Salesian Family to spend a time of intense prayer on Holy Thursday. The video of his appeal is to be found here.
