Yesterday, we celebrated the feast of Josephine Bakhita who died in 1947. She is recognized by people of many faiths as the patron saint of the anti-trafficking movement.
As a child in southern Sudan she was kidnapped and sold into slavery. Eventually she became a nun in Italy where she was known for her healing presence. She was officially declared a saint by Pope John Paul II in 2000.
And so today we pray, God of mercy, may those deprived of freedom and dignity find consolation in the life of Josephine Bakhita. Transform and heal the hearts of those who inflict pain and anguish on others for profit. Give hope and resilience to all those working to eradicate the ongoing crime of slavery around the world and in California. Be with all of us in our struggle for justice, love, and peace.—AMEN.