A memorable and grace filled day  because of the visit of Fr. Tom Uzhunnalil whose  name  was predominant in the history of the church as he was kidnapped by Yemeni militants from Yemen’s city of Aden  after the massacre of 4 Missionary sisters of Charity and other workers in a home for the aged.  His whereabouts were unknown for 557 days  and the entire church and Salesian world prayed earnestly for his release.  His release took place on 12th September 2017.

Barasat – Simultala  area was fortunate  to see him personally  and hear him narrate his harrowing experience of being in captivity.   He arrived about 11 a.m. and after a cup of tea he met the students of DB Tech of hospitality group.  In his talk he inspired them that each one is given a mission of reaching out to others.  Hospitality domain provides best opportunity to be helpful and serviceable and making the people feel good in an unknown ambient.  After his talk all were delighted to have a photo session with him and get individual blessings from him.

After the lunch he met the religious communities opposite side of Auxilium.  The communities of  St. John Vianney minor seminary,  Helpers of the Holy Souls in purgatory, Daughters of cross , Daughters of  charity of St. Vincent de Paul, disciples founded by Fr. Joe D’Souza sdb  gathered in the central hall of Daughters of the cross and there Fr. Tom addressed them.  He said that he was not worthy to be a martyr but God had a special mission for him after the release.  He was spared that is why he is able to meet and share his experience.  He allowed himself to be questioned and responded to queries.

At about 2.35 p.m. he met the Auxilium Sunday faithful which consisted of FMA aspirants from Bamonmura, novices and sisters of Bethany novitiate, Sisters and postulants of AC convent, pre- novices of Jesuits from Arunoday,  Aspirants of RNDM Nava Jeevan, Auxilium boarders, catholic students and catholic teachers.  He retold his experience at Aden of Yemen how the carnage of sisters took place, his kidnap of 557 days in the hands of the terrorists and his release. In his talk he spoke quite well of his captives as they had cared for him giving food and medicines. He replied to all the inquiries very patiently with a touch of humour as well.  The assembly was enamoured by his talk was manifested with even primary students asking him questions.  After the talk photo session took place wherehe amiably and unwearyingly obliged to various community and individual photo requests.

At 3.45 Fr. Tom visited Auxilium Bamunmura where the aspirants delightedly welcomed him with a mirthful welcome song.  He accompanied by Sr. Mary George Uzhunnalil and Sr. Teresa Adampakallel. The holy Eucharist commenced with a graceful entrance dance and a soul inspiring introduction.  In his homily he stressed on the value of prayer especially invoked for others.  His release is proof of the effect of prayer he stressed.  He exhorted the aspirants to respond to the call of the Lord and he further stated that   hurdles and troubles are part of discipleship.  Responding to mission requires one to be strong and persevering battling life’s struggles. After blessing all present he left the premises ignitingeveryone to be ready to follow Jesus even if it cost Martyrdom. His encounter with the candidates made a great impact on them. They are strengthened and stimulated to follow Christ with more determination and courage. Some of them are even inspired to become missionaries after him.