SUNDAY CATECHESIS

February 4, 2024

Day of Prayer and Awareness against

Human Trafficking 2024
(Doctrine)
 At the desire of Pope Francis, in the year 2015, 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.
 The primary objective of this Day is to create a greater awareness of the phenomenon
of human trafficking and to reflect on the situation of violence and injustice that
affects so many people’s lives.
 Another goal is to attempt to provide solutions to counter human trafficking by
taking concrete actions.
(Morals)
 The theme of the 10th Edition of the Day continued on from 2023 (Journeying in
Dignity), chosen by an international group of young people involved in the fight
against trafficking. This year, the subtitle LISTEN, DREAM, ACT is added to
materialize the “Call to Action” commitment made by the international representatives
of young people gathered in Rome in February 2023. The 10th Edition has the following
objectives (layunin):
To pray together as brothers and sisters of all ages, cultures, and faiths to end human
trafficking and other forms of exploitation; Raising awareness about human trafficking at
all levels - local churches, traditions, and communities; Celebrating the 10th year
anniversary of the Day with partners and people of goodwill; Closing the year dedicated
to young people (2023-2024).
(Worship)
 On February 8, Catholics all over the world are encouraged to host or attend prayer
services to create greater awareness about this phenomenon.
 “Prayer is the best weapon we possess. It is the key that opens the heart of God.” – San
Padre Pio
SUNDAY CATECHESIS
February 4, 2024

 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.