St. Josephine Bakhita

Saint Josephine Bakhita was a Sudanese-born former slave who became a Canossian religious sister in Italy, living and working there for 45 years. In 2000, she was declared a saint by the Catholic Church. She was born in Sudan in 1869 and was kidnapped and sold into slavery at a young age. She endured harsh treatment and several owners before finally being freed. After her liberation, she joined the Canossian Sisters and dedicated her life to sharing her story and helping others. Saint Josephine Bakhita is remembered for her faith, resilience, and forgiveness. She is venerated as a saint for her example of overcoming adversity with grace and compassion.

Feast Day is on February 8.

Patronage: Sudan; human trafficking survivors.