Bengaluru, Oct 08: Don Bosco Church, Lingarajapuram, Bengaluru, accorded a cordial and hearty welcome to Fr Tom Uzhunnallil in a unique style on Sunday. He was led in procession by the Parish Priest and Rector, Fr C M Jose, parish council members, members of various pious associations, catechism students, teachers and several others.

Prior to the Mass, Fr. Jose introduced Fr Tom and other concelebrants. He said, “We had been praying for Fr Tom, for his release and for the captors. Today he is in our midst and has become a reality. We all join him to thank God.”

During a brief talk to the packed congregation of people gathered to see and hear him, Fr Tom said he remained calm, quiet and level-headed throughout eighteen months of his captivity. He thanked all present and all others who could not be present for the prayers and sacrifices each one made for his release. He thanked profusely for the concern and warm-hearted welcome offered to him. He said, all the news items appeared in different media since his abduction at Aden in Yemen and release in Oman and “you have all read and viewed them. Let me not repeat them.”

Fr Tom who recuperates from his weak and fragile health said so many were involved in his release. God answers our prayers even if delayed. People of all religions prayed for him. Different countries wage wars against each other. We need to pray for true peace as prayers can help solve conflicts and problems. He exhorted all present to take it as a mission to pray for peace as it is a mission for him.

God has a plan for everone. Each person has a role to play in order to serve others and society. He pointed to the example of Jesus to forgive our enemies. Jesus will help you in your mission, role, studies (for students) and parents for job and looking after family.

Anup, parish council secretary, thanked Fr Tom for celebrating Mass for the intentions of the parishioners and those present. He assured Fr Tom and his relatives including his brother and family (who were present on the occasion) of the prayers of all