Thursday 9th September, 2010
St Peter Claver. 1 Corinthians 8:1-7, 11-13. Guide me, Lord, along the everlasting way—Ps 138(139):1-3, 13-14, 23-24. Luke 6:27-38.

  
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‘Love your enemies; do good to those who hate you.’

In the 16th century, slavery was more overt and rampant than it is today where domestic labour is accepted as the norm in some parts of the world. Despite the Pope’s exhortations, slave dealers ran a roaring trade with African nationals. St Peter Claver, a Jesuit born in 1581 and who was of a timid disposition, made it his life’s work to oppose slavery. He brought to these people a sense of dignity and self-worth despite their being despised as outcasts.

On this, his feast day, let us take some time to reflect on the modern world’s versions of slavery—and, through the intercession of St Peter Claver, endeavour to end all forms of slavery in the world.