St Joseph’s Theological Institute (SJTI) hosted a Morning of Reflection on Thursday, 01 October 2026, under the theme “Human Trafficking in Southern Africa.” The session was facilitated by Sr. Jane-Frances Mohlala CSP of Talitha Kum South Africa and was attended by SJTI students, academic staff, and auxiliary staff members.
Drawing inspiration from Luke 10:1-12, where Jesus sends His disciples out two by two, Sr. Jane-Frances highlighted the importance of collaboration in addressing the growing challenge of human trafficking. She emphasized that no individual or organisation can effectively combat trafficking alone and called on all participants to work together in protecting vulnerable people and promoting human dignity.
Throughout the session, participants were reminded that every person is created in the image and likeness of God and therefore deserves respect, protection, and freedom. Sr. Jane-Frances challenged attendees to recognise the “wolves of our time,” including exploitation, greed, violence, and human trafficking, which continue to threaten the lives of many people across Southern Africa.
A key focus of the reflection was the work of Talitha Kum, an international network of religious sisters committed to preventing human trafficking, supporting survivors, and raising awareness in communities. The facilitator explained that the name Talitha Kum comes from Mark 5:41, where Jesus says, “Little girl, arise,” symbolising hope, restoration, and new life for victims and survivors of trafficking.
Participants were also introduced to the story of St Josephine Bakhita, patron saint of victims and survivors of human trafficking. Her journey from slavery to sainthood served as an inspiring example of forgiveness, healing, and faith.
As part of the awareness programme, a video testimony was presented depicting the devastating effects of child trafficking and organ trafficking. The testimony highlighted the severe consequences of such crimes on victims, families, and communities, while also revealing the psychological burden carried by perpetrators. The video encouraged participants to reflect deeply on the value of human life and the importance of protecting children and other vulnerable persons.
An interactive discussion followed, during which students reflected on the role of the Church in addressing human trafficking. Participants highlighted the need for greater awareness in parishes, schools, and communities. They emphasised that priests, religious leaders, and lay faithful have an important responsibility to educate people, support survivors, and advocate for justice.
The discussion further explored the links between human trafficking, poverty, unemployment, migration, and social vulnerability. Sr. Jane-Frances stressed that while charitable assistance is important, long-term solutions require education, empowerment, collaboration, and sustainable opportunities for vulnerable communities.
Concluding the session, participants were encouraged to become ambassadors of awareness and to use their voices to speak out against exploitation and injustice. They were reminded that combating human trafficking requires both prayer and action, and that Christians are called to be instruments of hope, healing, and transformation in society.
The Morning of Reflection reinforced SJTI’s commitment to promoting human dignity, social justice, and the protection of vulnerable persons. The session concluded with a renewed call to work together in building communities free from exploitation and human trafficking.
“End Human Trafficking: Protect the Vulnerable.”
Talitha Kum South Africa
For more photos please see the link: Morning of Reflection Photos
