Update: Kidnapped priest alive but ailing in the Philippines

On October 10, Michael Sinnott, a 79-year-old priest from Ireland, was abducted by six armed men in the city of Pagadian near Zamboanga (Mindanao), Philippines as he was conducting evening prayers in his home (click here for more information). While the identities of his abductors remain unknown, authorities have been able to make contact with them and have been assured that the priest is alive but ailing. Medicines for Sinnott, who suffers from heart problems, were sent by a local church through an emissary and confirmation was received that he had obtained them. In July, Sinnott underwent a quadruple bypass. Pray that negotiations for his release will be successful.

Elderly Priest Kidnapped in Philippines

Mission News Network reports that a 79-year-old Irish priest working in the Philippines has been abducted. Father Michael Sinnott was abducted by six armed men on Oct. 10, and is reportedly "alive but still at the mercy of his unknown captors," according to Voice of the Martyrs Canada. Sinnott and his captors, who are suspected members of an Islamic rebel group, were last spotted on Oct. 12 more than 40 miles (70 km) from his home. The rebel group Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has denied any part in the abduction, but remain the focus in the authorities' investigation. The priest has worked in the Philippines for the past 40 years, working with ill anddisabled children, and is reportedly in frail health.