The Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace and the International Union of Superior General has designated February 8 as an annual day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human trafficking. February 8 is as well the Feast Day of St. Josephine Bakhita, who was kidnapped as a child and sold into slavery in Sudan and Italy. Once Josephine was freed, she became a Canossian nun and dedicated her life, sharing her testament of deliverance from slavery and comforting the poor and suffering. She was declared a Saint year 2000.
All Catholics are encouraged to host or attend prayer services to create greater awareness about this phenomenon. Through prayer, we have not only reflected on the experiences of those who have suffered through this affront to human dignity, but also comfort, strengthen, and help empower survivors.
JPIC Delegation of San Lorenzo Ruiz – Asia