We come to the last phase of our process thus far, and now we may need to determine the next stage. While action from the theological reflection process can be individual or communal, we can be sure that how we understand the root causes (i.e. demand, poverty, unemployment, gender inequality, etc.) will determine our action toward the issue.

Before any plan is proposed and finalized, there is an assumption that time has been set aside to be with this issue as a community of faith to promote further dialogue and insights. When the time comes to develop a comprehensive action plan, it will likely address the political, economic, social, legal and institutional dimensions of human trafficking. In addition, consideration of the impact we may have is also necessary.

Assuming we process together the issue of human trafficking, we may have asked, "What do I envision myself and my congregation doing as a result of our being with the issue?" There will likely be countless other challenges around this issue such as, "How do we promote the dignity of women? How do we acknowledge human sexuality as gift? What are our previous actions on condemning exploitation and slavery? Do we have examples of work for the liberation of those enslaved? What observations of mutual respect in relationships between us and others exist?" In refining the plan, we inquire, "How does this plan fit with who we are and our mission statement?"

Personally, each of us can make a commitment to promote social intolerance of human rights violations; research what organizations or groups in our area can do on the issue; pray for those who are victims of trafficking; and study the immigration and trafficking laws at state and national levels among other creative approaches.

On the other hand, partnership often leads to a more effective pool of resources, expertise and greater impetus for change. A collaborative and balanced approach to research, data collection and dissemination, education, and advocacy are all integral to the success of an action plan.

Communally, potential actions may include working at canceling debt in developing countries, promoting the education and formation of women, addressing the exploitation of women and children, and ending behavior that threatens global warming and climate change (that threatens life on Earth).