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.

In solidarity with those who have suffered as victims of human trafficking, we pray …

God, we ask your blessing on every victim of human trafficking. We know you bear their fear, their hurt and their pain.

May they feel your loving presence wash over them.

May justice be served.

May these women, men and children be released from the anguish they suffer.

As the people of Catholic health ministry, make us instruments of love and compassion — seeking out, serving and helping to heal those who are victims of human trafficking. In Your name we pray. Amen.