The story of St. Josephine Bakhita, who was kidnapped and sold into slavery in Sudan in the 19th century, shows the importance of using your voice to fight injustice. Throughout her life she was bought and sold many times and underwent terrible torture with some of her captors. When her kinder Italian mistress had dealings in Sudan, she went without Josephine, placing her in the custody of the Canossian Sisters in Venice. There she found God and discerned a calling with the Sisters. When her mistress returned and wanted Josephine back, one of the superiors complained to Italian authorities, and a court case determined that she would be free. Sister Josephine went on to share her story with others and is now the patron saint for human trafficking victims. Remember to use your voice for the voiceless. Learn more about how the USCCB is combating this scourge and how you can help.
During these short winter days, the Catholic Church offers many ways to dispel night’s darkness. Keep the flame of faith alight by illuminating your mind with St. Thomas Aquinas, your soul with Candlemas and your children with the spiritual richness of a fast-approaching Lent.