Writing on behalf of the diocese, Bishop Francisco Duque-Gomez condemned the abduction and reminded the culprits of their responsibility, under the Human Rights Declaration, to respect and guard Morales' life and safety.

Morales , 65, has registered as a candidate for Mayor, but it is unclear whether or not this was a motive for the abduction.

Duque called upon all local, regional, and national authorities to do everything in their power to ensure Morales' safe return and appealed to any Colombians who may have information to come forward.

"Ricardo has been a Priest in this Church for more than 20 years caring for the people of the Municipality of Líbano (Tolima), and in devotion to Christ ministering to the elderly and vulnerable," said Duque, a trial attorney and specialist in social sciences.

According to news reports, Morales was last seen boarding a bus on Armero-Guayabal Road, on his way to Ibague.

Colombia has one of the world's highest abduction rates. According to the Pais Libre Foundation, which helps families of abductees, there are currently more than 3,000 people in captivity in the South American country.

The Diocese of Colombia, one of the Episcopal Church's 11 overseas dioceses, welcomed Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori for a July 18-22 pastoral visit during which she met with President Álvaro Uribe Vélez of the Republic of Columbia and discussed the government's programs addressing poverty and violence.