On July 30, Archbishop Elpidophoros of America marked the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons with a heartfelt message shared on the official social media.
In his post, the Archbishop drew attention to the ongoing global tragedy of modern slavery, stating, “Today, on the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, we are reminded that millions are enslaved in our time.” Quoting Proverbs 31:8: “Speak out for those who cannot speak, for the rights of all the destitute”—he called on all Orthodox Christians to reject silence in the face of injustice: “As Orthodox Christians, we cannot remain silent.”
The Archbishop highlighted the Archdiocese’s commitment to ending modern slavery through the FREEDOM Ministry, a national initiative that equips parishes, trains clergy, and offers a sacred space for prayer and healing through the St. Barbara Shrine for Human Freedom in Tennessee.
He concluded with a powerful exhortation to the faithful: “Let us never grow weary in doing good; let us lift our voices in prayer, advocacy, and compassion; and let us, above all, bear witness to the truth that every human being is created in the image and likeness of God and worthy of freedom.”
Photos courtesy: FREEDOM National Ministry
