Theological reflection on human trafficking...
September 2007 |
Office of Global Ministries, Sisters of Charity of Nazareth |
PART 2.
How much of the image of God do we experience in those whom we meet? How deep do we allow that image of God to penetrate? How often does our schedule of hurried activity allow us to experience and listen uninterruptedly to others? These challenging questions call us to solidarity with our sisters and brothers. Called to constant conversion by baptism, theological reflection requires that insights from experiences, culture and theological tradition lead to thoughtful, intentional meaning and action.
Making meaning of our lives is basic to humans and is most pressing when there are disruptions to one’s worldview or way of seeing. It is easy to look for ways to “bypass” discomfort and rush to superficial meaning. Yet, feelings of discomfort provide new insights when fully engaged and explored. It is important to be with feelings of discomfort and pray with them. Asking questions such as, “why I think trafficking is so prevalent” or “what is it about the world I live in that makes it so easy for human trafficking to occur” is a part of making meaning. We can rest in moments with ourselves and the issue and listen to our heart speaking as images are evoked and connected with stories, metaphors or other aspects of Scripture and Catholic Social Teaching.
As a follower of Christ, it is natural to be disturbed by human trafficking and the appalling violation of rights individuals suffer. The violation of a human being is also a violation of God’s temple and an insult to God. When any person is oppressed, the human family is diminished. We are christened by Christ to walk into messy, ugly, and uncomfortable situations. Christ risked judgment by peers, the hatred of the religious elite, and the questioning of best friends. Are we not also asked to be in solidarity with the God presence in our sisters and brothers?
In contemplating human trafficking, we realize that changes are necessary to those suffering from being trafficked. We ask what role we can play in the changes that need to be made and how will we go about implementing those changes or being in solidarity with a group that is able to make changes?
Being: Reflect upon experiences in regard to human trafficking and the knowledge gained from the situation. Bring this to prayer and the theological reflection process. What further insights have I gained? What values in Scripture and Catholic Social Teaching are calling me to action?
PART 2. THEOLOGICAL REFLECTION
Part 3. STOP HUMAN TRAFFICKING: ACTION
HUMAN TRAFFICKING: MODERN DAY SLAVERY
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