As many as 27 million people worldwide are victims of human trafficking, the U.S. State Department’s 2012 Trafficking in Persons Report states. How can your church follow the biblical mandate to care for the oppressed? (Isa. 1:17).
Commemorate Freedom Sunday. On Sunday, Feb. 17, 2013, focus on human trafficking and your church’s response to injustice. Thousands of churches and faith communities nationwide are expected to participate in the campaign sponsored by the international movement Not For Sale. Download free resources (sermon notes, Bible studies, music, videos, etc.).
Pray. During worship services, pray corporately for freedom and physical, spiritual and emotional wholeness for trafficking survivors. Download, print and pass out The A21 Campaign’s prayer guide and encourage individual prayer.
Create awareness and educate. Provide a recommended list of books (Not for Sale, Enslaved, Terrify No More) and films (Trade, Taken).
Localize the issue. Experts say human trafficking exists in every U.S. state. Invite a local official or news reporter to speak about the impact on your community.
On a screen before or during worship, show the website URL PolarisProject.org, where users can sign up for regular updates, maps and news on trafficking in their area.
Lead a donations drive for local and global shelters. Ask for donations of numerous items (new clothes, socks, pajamas and personal hygiene). Collect donations on Freedom Sunday or at your next women’s retreat or event.
Support fair-trade products. Learn how your church can promote fair trade and help reduce the demand for items made by slaves.
Partner with other organizations and churches already engaged in the fight. Instead of creating your own initiative, seek out others with similar goals and join them in their efforts.
