February 8
Josefina Bakhita (c. 1869–1947)
Secular
Kidnapped as a child in Sudan, Josefina Bakhita was sold several times and suffered cruel abuse as a slave.
Biography
Taken to Italy, she met the Canossian Daughters of Charity, received baptism and legally obtained her freedom. She chose to consecrate herself to God and served for decades as cook, porter and sacristan, radiating serenity and forgiveness. She never responded with hatred to those who had hurt her; He said that, without that painful path, perhaps he would not have known Christ. His life proclaims the inviolable dignity of every person.
Practical advice
Reject today an expression that treats a person as an object and defend their dignity with firm and respectful words.
Example of
Spirit of serviceSanctified workForgiveness