Columban thanks for Sinnott support
Dear sir - Columban Missionaries in Ireland would like to acknowledge their appreciation of the important role played by the media, both print and electronic, in sympathetically covering the abduction and subsequent release of Fr Michael Sinnott, SSC. Even though the ordeal took place on the other side of the world, people in Ireland were able to stay in touch with each phase of the tense drama. This was a great relief to his family, to his Columban colleagues, to his friends and neighbours in Clonard, Wexford and to the Irish public who showed such sympathetic interest in the plight of this courageous missionary. We believe that this sustained coverage by the media, helped in no small way to bring the kidnapping saga to a peaceful resolution. As missionaries we knew from the previous kidnapping of the late Fr Desmond Hartford and Fr Rufus Halley that the kidnapping could have ended in bloodshed. A happy ending without violence or any loss of life, was our fervent wish and prayer. We are also grateful that the media brought to the attention of the Irish people the sterling service that Fr Michael and missionaries like him have given in economically poor countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America. You called attention to his courage and dedication to social justice during the years of the Marcos dictatorship. In the early 1980s, in a period of three weeks, 18 people were killed in his parish. Fr Michael's support for children with special needs was also highlighted. Finally when he was released on the 32nd day of captivity, the media brought Fr Michael's own words to the Irish people. You commented on his lack of anger and bitterness towards his captives and of his eagerness to get back to work as quickly as possible. We are also grateful to the Irish Catholic Church. Prayers for his safety and release were included in Masses throughout the length and breadth of Ireland. Ten minutes after word of his freedom came through from the Irish Government, Cardinal Sean Brady was on the phone to the Columban Superior. Many of the thousands of similar acts of kindness and concern were captured by the media. We wish to express our sincere gratitude to Minister Michael Martin and all in public office for their untiring efforts on behalf of Fr Michael Sinnott. Both the Columbans and his family appreciated the daily updates from the Department of Foreign Affairs during the 32 days of captivity. Renewed thanks to the people in the media and to all those who supported Fr Michael during his ordeal. We in the Columban Missionary Society are truly grateful and will remember you in our prayers. Yours, Fr Malachy Smith, Dalgan Park, Navan.