Every June 26, the world commemorates the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, a date that invites us to reflect on the urgent need to eradicate this inhumane practice and to support those who have suffered from it. This day was established by the United Nations in 1997, with the aim of honoring the victims and reaffirming the conviction that torture is an unforgivable crime.
Pope Francis has been a strong voice against torture. In a general audience, he said: “Torture is a mortal sin, a very grave sin. God’s heart and mind are always with the victims of this terrible crime.” These words reflect the Pope’s deep commitment to human dignity and his categorical rejection of any form of torture.
As Vedruna Family, we have committed ourselves from our charism to assist those who suffer, to comfort and give hope to those who have lost everything. And since our last General Chapter, to “Promote caring relationships and non-violent attitudes, standing firmly against mistreatment and abuse in all its expressions” (NdN 2.5), aware that torture is one of them, one of the most damaging to people.
On this day, let us renew our commitment to justice, peace and human dignity, and follow the example of compassion and courage offered to us by Pope Francis and our Saint Joaquina. We pray for those who suffer today:
Prayer
God the Father
Source: Aleteia
that you have created every human being in your image and likeness
and you have given us the dignity of being your beloved children.
We pray for the many victims of torture,
for those who have died
and for those who have suffered physical or psychological harm.
Also for their families and loved ones,
and by their torturers.
Help us to commit ourselves concretely to the abolition of torture.
and to work and suffer for justice and peace.
We ask this through Jesus Christ, our Lord,
who was tortured and executed on the cross for our salvation.
Amen.
