Feb. 8.: Lay Salvatorian Recognition Day + world prayer day against mordern slavery

Two significant celebrations in one day for us lay Salvatorians. Perhaps not everyone is fully aware of this overlap. Nevertheless, some lay Salvatorians are already working today for liberation from modern slavery and against the many forms of human trafficking. This is certainly not the sole main apostolate of the lay Salvatorians, but it is an important task and a response to one of the signs of the times.
The documentation linked here is intended to tell us a little more about the life of Saint Josephine Bakhita and to strengthen us in our efforts to take up our apostolate for this cause and the cry for justice.

Around the world, many Catholics are encouraged to organize or participate in prayer services and devotions to raise awareness of this shameful human tragedy—one that is still present and often hidden in our neighborhoods, sometimes closer than we would expect. Through prayer, we not only reflect on the experiences of those who have suffered this violation of human dignity, but we also comfort, strengthen, restore respect, and help empower today’s victims.
For they need our attention, our awareness, and our resistance to this type of crime. Let us open our eyes and not close them. Often, the smallest things we do have a big impact.
Once again, we are offering a joint prayer vigil in several languages, if there is interest. You can download the prayer material for 2026 here →

https://preghieracontrotratta.org/

And, of course, we must not forget to celebrate our Day of Recognition, the first real holiday for us lay Salvatorians. As a sign that justice, peace, and the preservation of creation are of great importance, the General Committee has invited us to participate in a joint planting campaign this year. Depending on local climatic conditions, seeds are to be planted in the ground or even whole trees. The seedlings that grow from the seeds can then be moved outside later, weather permitting.
May this campaign be a common sign of our solidarity across all borders. Let’s be companions on the journey …