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.

Many Salvatorians over the world (religious and lay) are working in this field in several units. It’s necessary  that all people get the awareness about this serious crime, to free this modern slaves and end modern slavery.

The General committee of the ICDS invites all Lay Salvatorian to celebrate this day as a common day of prayer and reflection. As suggestion we have prepared a

PRAYER SHEET in English and Spanish.

May our efforts against modern slavery be blessed and become more connected.