On February 8, 2023 the Church observed the ninth International Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking on the feast of Josephine Bakhita (1869-1947), who was abducted and enslaved in South Sudan at the age of 9. Eventually she escaped the worst fate when, at the age of 15, she was purchased by an Italian family. She came to Italy and found freedom.

As a religious Sister of the Canossian Congregation, Josephine Bakhita gave witness to a life of Christian service. She was canonized by Pope Saint John Paul II and is the patroness of those trapped in servitude. Imposed by her abductors, her name Bakhita means “Lucky One.” What some call “Luck” she recognized to be the gift of God which brings eternal blessing.

Below is the video message of Pope Francis for the Ninth International Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking on the theme Journeying in dignity, which you can also read in English here.

May those in need of the basic freedom to experience their personal dignity be helped by our prayer and action every day!