With gratitude from the RENATE Network

This week, we mourn the passing of our Holy Father, Pope Francis, a shepherd who stood boldly for justice, peace, and the dignity of every person. While our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we find comfort in reflecting on the moments we shared with him as a network.

One such treasured memory was the audience RENATE members were privileged to have with Pope Francis during our Second European Assembly in Rome, held from 6–12 November 2016. On 7th November, the Holy Father welcomed us at the Vatican with warmth and humility. Each person had the rare opportunity to greet him personally — an unforgettable honour.

As a token of our shared mission, Sr. Patricia Mulhall, CSB, presented Pope Francis with a handwoven St. Brigid’s Cross from the Brigidine Community in Kildare, Ireland. Alongside Sr. Viktorija Šimić, SCSC, they shared a prayer composed during the weaving of the Cross — carrying our hopes, dreams, and steadfast commitment to end human trafficking.

We invite you to revisit the Pope’s full address to RENATE here:
👉 Greeting of His Holiness Pope Francis to the Second European Assembly of RENATE

You may also enjoy looking back at the group photo with Pope Francis, a moment of joy and unity that continues to bless us.

For more stories and photos from this special time, visit our News archive from November 2016, and feel free to browse your own photo collections to remember the joy we shared in Rome.

We give thanks for the life, vision, and unwavering compassion of Pope Francis. May he rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to light our path.

In prayer,
The RENATE Core Group

As the world blossoms into spring, so too does the energy and activity across the RENATE network. We are pleased to share with you our Spring 2025 Newsletter — a rich and vibrant edition that captures the dedication, compassion, and courage of RENATE members over the past quarter.

This newsletter offers a powerful window into the work being done across Europe and beyond to uphold dignity, protect the vulnerable, and build a world free from human trafficking.

Inside this edition, you’ll find:

Highlights from the RENATE Working Board Meeting
Our recent gathering brought together members from across the network to reflect, strategise, and deepen our shared commitment. The meeting served as a space of vision, encouragement and renewed purpose.

Updates on the Situation in Ukraine
This issue includes important insights into the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the risks it poses for human trafficking. RENATE members on the ground continue to respond with courage and compassion to support those most affected.

Interviews with RENATE Members
Meet some of the people behind the work, like Sr. Margaret Gonzi working in Malta. Her interview shines a light on the stories, motivations and daily efforts of those tirelessly engaged in anti-trafficking initiatives across the continent.

Reflections on the International Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking – St. Bakhita Day, February 8th
Across the network, RENATE members marked this significant day through events, liturgies, and public awareness campaigns. This edition captures how our collective voice was raised in prayer, solidarity and action.

We invite you to read the newsletter, share it widely among your communities, and tell us what you think! Together, we move forward — grounded in hope, united in purpose, and inspired by the power of our shared mission.

[Read the Spring 2025 Newsletter here.]

Shared by RENATE member Sabine Kallauch, the following reflection offers a powerful glimpse into the frontline work of KAVOD, a dedicated outreach initiative bringing dignity, care, and presence to women in brothels across Styria:

“Yes, we are all human beings—and it was precisely this shared humanity that we were able to experience once again during our intensive missions in Styria. We hugged many women in the brothels and were able to bring a smile to many faces. These encounters take place in environments marked by deep inhumanity, where people are used like objects and their dignity is routinely trampled.”

The work of KAVOD is only possible thanks to their committed team of volunteers, some of whom have been walking alongside the mission for many years. Their consistency and compassion are a vital part of what makes these moments of connection possible.

Sabine and Andreas will be travelling once more to Ukraine at the end of April, continuing their vital work in another challenging context. They are grateful for any financial support—donations are tax-deductible in both Germany and Austria.

We invite you to explore the KAVOD Annual Report 2024, which offers a deeper look into their work, impact, and mission.