Father Jacques Murad, a Syrian Catholic priest who was kidnapped five months ago by Islamic States militants in central Syria has reportedly been freed. Father Murad is Prior of the Monastery of Mar Elian and pastor of the community in Qaryatayn, 60 km southeast of Homs.
It’s not yet known the circumstances surrounding his release.
Father Murad is now said to be in the village of Zaydal about 5 kilometers from the city of Homs.
He is said to be in good health.
The priest belongs to the community of Mar Musa El Habashi, founded by Jesuit Father Paolo Dall’Oglio kidnapped July 29, 2013 in al Raqqa, the current stronghold of the Islamic state.
Source: Vatican Radio
