Fr. Giuseppe Pierantoni, SCJ, visits the Philippines

Two years ago, we shared information on the abduction of Fr. Giuseppe (Beppe) Pierantoni, SCJ. You shared our concerns and joined with us in prayer for his safe return. It is only fitting that we share with you the news of his return to the Philippines

Fr. Giuseppe is being welcomed by Parish Priest in Dumalinao Fr. Janusz Burzawa, SCJ

After almost 10 years of missionary work in Mindanao, Fr. Giuseppe Pierantoni was kidnapped and kept in captivity for 172 days. It happened on October 17, 2001 in Dimataling, Zamboanga del Sur. Freed on April 8, 2002, almost immediately, he went home to Italy to recover from this unpleasant experience and to meet his family. But, before leaving the country, Fr. Pierantoni had expressed a wish to come back someday to meet again the people, with whom he used to work, especially those who prayed for him unceasingly and worked for his freedom, to thank them personally for their efforts and support.

With Bishop Zacarias Jimenez and the Parish Priest of Dimataling, Fr. J. Lagare, SCJ

 

The promise he made was fulfilled in the end of last February 2003. Before going to India, the place of his new assignment, Fr. Giuseppe Pierantoni came back for a four week visit in the Philippines.

Sharing his experiences

During this time he was able to visit all the places of his assignment and met many of his friends.

Many people went to see him again...

The most touching part of his visit was the visit in Dimataling, the place where he was abducted. Fr. Giuseppe went there with Bishop Zacarias Jimenez, DD, who had showed a lot of concern during his abduction and made many efforts to see him free again.

It was hello, but also good-bye

During the meeting with the people Fr. Pierantoni expressed his gratefulness to all for their prayers and support. They were very happy to see him again in good health and spirits.

They wanted to greet him, to shake their hands and to hug him...