Sr. Suellen Tennyson, MSC, Kidnapped in Africa

This morning, officials with the Archdiocese of New Orleans were informed that Marianite Sister Suellen Tennyson has been abducted from the parish in Yalgo, Bukina Faso where she had been stationed as a missionary since 2014. According to Bishop Theophile Nare of the Kaya Diocese, Sr. Suellen, age 83, was abducted overnight between April 4 and 5 and taken to an unknown destination by Unidentified Armed Men (UAM).

The kidnappers vandalized the convent where Sr. Suellen lived in community with other religious women before taking her to the unknown destination.

“Until the search for her is successful, we remain in communion of prayer for the release of Sr. Suellen Tennyson,” Bishop Nare wrote in a statement released to media in Africa and Europe.

Speaking on behalf of the community, Marianite congregational leader Sister Ann Lacour said, “We first and foremost are praying for Sr. Suellen’s safety and for her release from her captives. Let us pray too for all impacted by the actions of this group, particularly our sisters who witnessed the vandalism and kidnapping. We are in touch with governmental leaders who have pledged to keep us informed as they learn more.”

Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond joined in the appeal of the safe return of Sr. Suellen saying, “For many years, Sr. Suellen ministered to the people of the Archdiocese of New Orleans with great joy. Today, we express our sadness and shock at her abduction and offer our prayers for her safe return. Please join me in praying for Sr. Suellen, the Marianite Sisters of the Holy Cross, and all who know and love her during this difficult time.”

The Archdiocese of New Orleans will provide updates as more information becomes available.

According to media reports, Burkina Faso, one of the ten countries in the Sahel region of Africa, has been facing rampant violence occasioned by political crises, which offer a fertile ground for the proliferation of extremist groups. The city of Yalgo borders the province of Soum where armed groups are particularly active. In this area, attacks against civilians have increased according to reports.