Columbans in Ireland thank media for coverage of kidnapping and release of Fr Michael Sinnott

The letter below appeared in The Irish Times today (Tuesday 17 November). Fr Malachy Smyth is the Communications Coordinator of the Columbans in Ireland.

Madam, – The Columban Missionaries in Ireland would like to acknowledge their appreciation of the important role played by the media – print and electronic – in sympathetically covering the abduction and subsequent release of Fr Michael Sinnott, SSC.

Lobby of St Columban's, Manila

Even though the ordeal happened on the other side of the world, people in Ireland were able to stay in touch with events through the competent way the press dealt with the kidnapping. This was a great relief to his family, to his Columban colleagues, to his friends and to a large segment of the Irish public who showed such sympathetic interest in the plight of this courageous missionary.

Fr Rufus Halley

We believe that this sustained coverage by the media helped in no small way in bringing the kidnapping to a peaceful resolution. As missionaries we knew from the previous kidnapping of the late Fr Desmond Hartford (1997) and the late Fr Rufus Halley (2001) that the kidnapping could have ended in great pain or even death. 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 communities in Asia, Africa and Latin America for decades.

You highlighted his courage and work for the “disappeared” during the years of the Marcos dictatorship, and his current ministry supporting a charity for children with special needs in Pagadian city. 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 church. Prayers for his safety and release were said in home, schools and churches throughout the length and breadth of Ireland.

Cardinal Seán Brady

Ten minutes after word of his freedom came through from the Government, Cardinal Seán Brady Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All-Ireland) phoned our superior to express his delight.

Renewed thanks to the people in the media and to all those who supported Fr Michael during his captivity.

Micheál Martin

Finally, we would like to thank Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin and the officials in his department both in Ireland and in the Philippines for their daily, tireless efforts to secure Fr Michael’s release.

We in the Columban Missionary Society are truly grateful, and will remember you in our prayers. – Yours, etc,

Fr MALACHY SMYTH,

St Columban’s

Dalgan Park,

Navan,

Co Meath.