On the invitation of Sister Abby Avelino, Coordinator of Talitha Kum International, Ambassador Michel Veuthey, accompanied by Emanuele Piluso, participated in “The Call for Hope and Healing Conference.”
The Call for Hope and Healing conference was held on February 6, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, at the Pontificia Università della Santa Croce, in the Aula Magna Giovanni Paolo II, in Rome. This event was part of the series of activities leading up to the 11th International Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking, established by Pope Francis in 2015. Centered on prayer, awareness, and personal testimonies, the event coincided with the Feast of Saint Josephine Bakhita (February 8), a symbol of resilience and hope in the fight against human trafficking. The conference was organized by Talitha Kum International and supported by the International Union of Superiors General (UISG).
Distinguished speakers included His Eminence Cardinal Michael Czerny, Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, who underscored the crucial role of hope in combating trafficking. Sister Abby Avelino, Coordinator of Talitha Kum International, and Sister Roxanne Schares, Executive Secretary of UISG, opened the conference.
The conference concluded with final reflections from the moderator, followed by a networking session in the university’s courtyard. Among the contacts, we would like to mention:
- Mrs. Laura L. Hochla, Chargée d’affaires, U.S. Embassy to the Holy See, with Ms. Alyce Ahn.
- Sister Maamalifar M. Poreku, Missionary Sister of Our Lady of Africa (MSOLA), JPIC Commission, Executive Co-Secretary USG-UISG
The presence of prominent international figures, with compelling personal stories, artistic performances, and spiritual reflections, made the Call for Hope and Healing a powerful and inspiring event in the global effort to end human trafficking.
