St Josephine Bakhita

Her Story

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A remarkable woman

•Born in Sudan in 1869

•Kidnapped & sold into slavery

•Baptised in 1890; great joy at becoming a ‘daughter of God’

•Became a Canossian Sister

•For 50 years lived humbly as a religious sister, answering the convent door

•Died 8th February 1947

•Canonized on 1st October 2000

A Saint for the Third Millenium

The Bishops of England and Wales have made 8th February, the Feast of St Josephine Bakhita, a day of prayer for the victims of human trafficking and those who work to combat this terrible crime. Human trafficking now ranks as the second most profitable worldwide criminal enterprise after the illegal arms trade.

Despite the suffering she experienced as a slave, St Josephine Bakhita was a wonderful witness of how to live a life rooted in faith, inspired by hope and characterized by love. A true Christian, she forgave those who had treated her so very badly, and wanted to share God’s love with all she met.

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A life of love, simplicity, service and forgiveness

How does the life of St. Josephine Bakhita challenge you?

St Josephine, you did not allow the sufferings you endured to keep you from accepting God’s love for you.Help all those who are victims of human trafficking to know God’s love. Inspire people to care for them. Pray for us, that we may follow your example in seeking God’s call for our life, and that we may learn to put into action the forgiveness and kindness that you showed.

St Josehine Bakhita… Pray for us. Our Father….

“Be good, love the Lord, pray for those who do not know Him.

What a great grace it is to know God!”

St Josephine Bakhita