Episcopal priest kidnapped - updated
Episcopal Life Online reports:
The Diocese of Colombia has made an urgent plea for the release of one of its priests, the Rev. Ricardo Morales Gaviria, who was abducted August 20 by outlaw militias.Writing on behalf of the diocese, Bishop Francisco Duque-Gomez condemned the abduction and reminded the culprits of their responsibility, under the Human Rights Declaration, to respect and guard Gaviria's life and safety.
Gaviria, 65, has registered as a candidate for Mayor, but it is unclear whether or not this was a motive for the abduction.
Duque called upon all local, regional, and national authorities to do everything in their power to ensure Gaviria's safe return and appealed to any Colombians who may have information to come forward.
"Gaviria has been a Priest in this Church for more than 20 years caring for the people of the Municipality of Líbano (Tolima), and in devotion to Christ ministering to the elderly and vulnerable," said Duque, a trial attorney and specialist in social sciences.
Read it all here.
We offer prayers for his safety and return to his family.
UPDATE: Episcopal Life Online reports: The Colombian priest, the Rev. Ricardo Morales Gaviria, who was abducted August 20 by outlaw militias has been found disoriented and heavily drugged, Colombia Bishop Francisco Duque-Gomez confirmed August 21. Read it here.
