World Day of Prayer, Reflection and Action Against Human Trafficking - Prayer and Resources from Bishops

World Day of Prayer, Reflection and Action Against Human Trafficking

"If just one person realizes from this day that they or someone they know is being trafficked, we will have made a difference." Bishop Eusebio Elizondo, M.Sp.S.

The Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace and the International Union of Superiors General has designated February 8 as an annual day of prayer and awareness against human trafficking. February 8 is 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 to sharing her testament of deliverance from slavery and comforting the poor and suffering. She was declared a Saint in 2000.

On February 8, Catholics all over the world are encouraged to host or attend prayer services to create greater awareness about this phenomenon. Through prayer, we not only reflect on the experiences of those that have suffered through this affront to human dignity, but also comfort, strengthen, and help empower survivors.
Prayer:

Loving Father,

We seek your divine protection for all who are exploited and enslaved.

For those forced into labor, trafficked into sexual slavery, and denied freedom.

We beseech you to release them from their chains.

Grant them protection, safety, and empowerment.

Restore their dignity and provide them a new beginning.

Show us how we might end exploitation by addressing its causes.

Help us reach out in support of victims and survivors of human trafficking.

Make us instruments of your spirit for their liberation.

For this we pray through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen

Visit our Become a SHEPHERD page to help you host an awareness raising event locally. 

World Day of Prayer against Human Trafficking 2020 Please join us in prayer by downloading the materials available on the Vatican Migrants & Refugees Section website of this initiative, including the prayer to Saint Josephine Bakhita, and the Pontifical Orientations on Human Trafficking. Source: USCCB