Blog
From Slavery to Sanctity: Celebrating the Feast of St. Josephine Bakhita
Formation
/
Feb 7, 2025
On February 8, the Catholic Church celebrates the Feast Day of St. Josephine Bakhita, a saint whose life embodies resilience, forgiveness, and unwavering faith in God. Her story inspires countless people to find hope and transformation even amidst unimaginable suffering.
A Life Transformed by Faith
Born in 1869 in Darfur, Sudan, Josephine was kidnapped as a child and sold into slavery. She endured years of physical and emotional torment, bearing over 100 scars on her body. Despite the cruelty she faced, Josephine would later testify, “As a slave, I never despaired because I felt a mysterious force supporting me.”
Her life changed in 1883 when she was sold to an Italian diplomat who brought her to Italy. There, Josephine encountered the Canossian Sisters, who introduced her to the Catholic faith. In 1890, she was baptized, taking the name Josephine Margaret Fortunata—a reflection of the deep joy and freedom she had found in Christ.
Josephine later joined the Canossian Sisters, where she lived a life of prayer and service, dedicating herself to spreading the message of God’s love and mercy. Known affectionately as "Mother Moretta," Josephine’s gentle spirit and radiant joy left a lasting impression on all who met her.
Lessons from St. Josephine’s Life
Pope Francis highlights Josephine's remarkable capacity for forgiveness, even toward those who wronged her. In a 2023 general audience, he noted how she meditated daily on the words of Christ, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do,” and became an “existential parable of forgiveness.” Her life is a reminder that true freedom is found in God’s love, and forgiveness is a gift that restores both dignity and humanity.
Josephine’s legacy also calls attention to the ongoing issue of human trafficking. As Pope Francis has said, human trafficking is “a crime against humanity,” and St. Josephine’s life remains a beacon of hope for all who work to combat this grave injustice.
Novena to St. Josephine Bakhita
To prepare for her feast day, you are invited to pray this novena starting January 30. Pray daily, asking for her intercession and reflecting on her life of faith and forgiveness.
Novena Prayer:
God of goodness and mercy, rewarder of the humble, you blessed St. Josephine Bakhita of Sudan with charity and patience. May her prayers help us, and her example inspire us to carry our cross and to love you always.
Pour upon us the spirit of wisdom and love with which you filled St. Josephine Bakhita. By serving you as she did, may we please you by our faith and our actions.
Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.
Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, walk with us as we walk closer to your Son, Jesus.
St. Josephine Bakhita, pray for us.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Dive Deeper Into Her Story
To learn more about St. Josephine’s inspiring journey, we’re thrilled to share our free audiobook: Saint Josephine Bakhita: A Survivor of Human Trafficking by Jean Olwen Maynard. This captivating story reveals Josephine’s transformation from a victim of human trafficking to a saint whose life radiates God’s mercy. Through her suffering and faith, she became a symbol of hope and redemption for all.
Download the audiobook today on the Tabella App and let her story inspire your heart.
Join Us in Prayer
St. Josephine Bakhita’s life challenges us to trust in God’s love, forgive others, and stand in solidarity with the oppressed. As we approach her feast day, let us reflect on her example and pray for her intercession in our own lives. Together, may we work toward a world filled with the peace and freedom found in Christ.
Listen also to her audiobook and be inspired by her story!
