Fears grow for health of priest kidnapped in the Philippines

(October 26, 2009) Fears are growing about the health of an elderly Columban missionary who was kidnapped more than two weeks ago in Mindanao, in southern Philippines. Irish priest Fr. Michael Sinnott was taken at gunpoint from the mission compound in Pagadian City on 11 October two months before his 80th birthday. He recently underwent heart surgery and needs regular medication. Fr Pat O’Donoghue, head of the Columban Missionaries in the Philippines told reporters on Sunday that he was convinced Fr Sinnott was alive but couldn’t say how well he was. He guessed that after two weeks in captivity, he must be somewhat weak. While the authorities continue to search for the priest, churches have been holding prayers vigils across the diocese. Bishop Emmanuel Cabajar of Pagadian where Fr. Sinnott was working, on Saturday asked parishes in the province’s 21 towns to display banners calling for Fr Sinnott’s release.