Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking

This feast day of St. Bakhita has been set aside for us to stop and reflect on the trafficking of people. In 2021 we are invited to multiply and promote new economic experiences that oppose all forms of exploitation. Within the theme ‘An economy without human trafficking’ we have been asked to join an online prayer marathon.

To find out more about participating in this International Online Prayer Marathon click HERE

Individuals can support the World Day through the official hashtag #PrayAgainstTrafficking.

Pope Francis has asked "the Church to stop and reflect on the dominant economic model and to find alternative paths… since the trafficking of people is an integral part of an economy of exclusion, where the rules of the market are destroying the fundamental values of human coexistence," said Gabriella Bottani, coordinator of Talitha Kum.

Source: La Croix Feb 5 2021

Find out more about Talitha Kum - an international network of consecrated life against trafficking in persons HERE

What does Talitha Kum mean?

It is Aramaic for “Young girl, I tell you, get up.” Do you know where to locate that episode in Scripture?

February 8th is the feast day of Saint Bakhita. 

St. Bakhita, the slave girl who became a saint is the  universal symbol of the Church's commitment against slavery.

Let Us Pray

God of hope and peace touch our hearts and energize our ongoing efforts in abolishing human trafficking, a heinous crime against humanity, so that every victim is freed and every survivor’s life renewed. You blessed St. Josephine Bakhita of Sudan with compassion for others. May her prayers comfort and strengthen the women, men, and children who are in search of freedom.

We ask for transformation of heart for those who inflict pain, anguish and grief on our vulnerable sisters and brothers. Give us generosity to stand in solidarity with others so that together we heal the hearts and lives of all Your people. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, forever and ever.

For more resource ideas go to the Mercy World Toolkit. HERE