Human trafficking is a scourge that each year impacts thousands of vulnerable women, men and children who come to the United States searching for a better life but wind up as modern-day slaves.
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has been a leader for many years in raising awareness and seeking to end sex and labor trafficking. Its recently launched “Become a SHEPHERD” campaign offers Catholics a way to engage in the fight by educating others and advocating on behalf of victims.
The USCCB also is asking parishes to recognize Feb. 8 as a day of prayer for survivors and victims of human trafficking. The date marks the feast day of St. Josephine Bakhita, a Sudanese woman who was kidnapped as a child and sold into slavery. When she was freed, she became a nun, and worked to comfort the poor and suffering.
