"Please think of our child as though she were your own daughter. Please help us," – Huma's parents.

Abductions in the state have become “a big business” though some kidnappings are for religious reasons, – Rev John Joseph Hayab.

"We are happy; to God be the glory", said Sister Agatha Osarekhoe, Superior General of the Sisters of the Eucharistic Heart of Christ, announcing the release of the sisters.

Terry Waite had spent many years travelling the world’s worst war zones before being captured and held in solitary confinement for almost five years. He has never given up on his belief that peace is possible.

Fr Jacques Mourad released after five months as Pope says he is following with great concern what is happening in Syria, Iraq, Jerusalem and West Bank.

Christians in Quaryatay have been living in fear of IS since May this year, when Fr Jacques Mourad, the Syrian-Catholic priest responsible for Mar Elian convent, was kidnapped.

“We priests are fully aware of the risks we run, but we cannot do otherwise than remain alongside the Syrian people, both Christians and Muslims.”