Pray for this priest our brother in Christ. . .

Institute Pleas for Kidnapped Priest's Release

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines, JUNE 20, 2007 (Zenit.org).- The Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions released a statement appealing for the release of Father Giancarlo Bossi, missing since June 10.

"As far as we know the captors and their masterminds have not yet been clearly identified, however, the evidence points to a well-organized group […] they were fully armed and well equipped and the capture of Father Giancarlo was carefully planned," the PIME communiqué says.

Father Bossi, 57, an Italian member of the PIME, was abducted after celebrating Mass in the southern island group of Mindanao.

The Pontifical Institute statement said: "Who are these captors and masterminds? […] Why don't they declare their purpose? Why are they playing with the life of a person and religious leader serving the people in a remote area? Why the agony of suspense? What interests are involved? We can only plead for mercy.

"We pray that persons of good will may dare to bring out the truth and free the nation from those disgraceful acts of tension. Father Giancarlo may feel abandoned like Jesus on the cross; may we share with him and with all our people the joy of resurrection."

"Hail Mary full of grace, blessed art thou among women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen."

Mary, Queen of Peace, pray for us!