Palm Sunday Celebration Honors Human Trafficking Survivors at Chapel of Saint Barbara
FREEDOM Ministry
On Palm Sunday, the FREEDOM Ministry, under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Peter J. Spiro, welcomed and embraced 28 survivors of human trafficking at the Chapel of Saint Barbara – Shrine for Human Freedom in Tennessee. The sacred gathering served as a moment of spiritual renewal, healing, and community.
The survivors attended the moving church service that concluded with a hands-on activity teaching them how to fold palm crosses—a symbol of peace and victory—and a joyful lesson in the tradition of cracking eggs at Easter, representing resurrection and new beginnings.
“This was more than a gathering—it was a prayerful celebration of survival, hope, and dignity,” said Rev. Dr. Spiro. “These incredible women are walking testimonies of strength, and we are honored to walk beside them on their journey to restoration.”
The full-day event extended beyond the chapel walls. Outreach philanthropy provided attendees with free clothing, shoes, accessories, purses, jewelry, and personal hygiene products, as well as gift cards to support their ongoing needs. These offerings were meant to honor their dignity and assist them in their continued healing process.
The event also featured therapeutic animal interactions, including assisted animal therapy with the facility’s resident peacocks and equine therapy with two gentle horses—offering moments of calm, connection, and joy.
The Chapel of Saint Barbara, which was deemed the Shrine for Human Freedom by the Holy Eparchial Synod, remains a secure and sacred space dedicated to advocacy, healing, and remembrance for all affected by human trafficking.
This Palm Sunday celebration stands as a testament to the power of compassion, faith, and community in the journey toward freedom.
About FREEDOM Ministry
FREEDOM Ministry, is a didactic teaching ministry for parishes and leaders in the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese. FREEDOM is led by Rev. Dr. Peter J. Spiro, and is additionally dedicated to supporting survivors of human trafficking through spiritual care, outreach, and restorative programs that foster long-term healing and independence. For more information, please contact [email protected] www.freedom.goarch.org
Photos: FREEDOM.
H αναδημοσίευση του παραπάνω άρθρου ή μέρους του επιτρέπεται μόνο αν αναφέρεται ως πηγή το ORTHODOXIANEWSAGENCY.GR με ενεργό σύνδεσμο στην εν λόγω καταχώρηση.
Ακολούθησε το ORTHODOXIANEWSAGENCY.gr στο Google News και μάθε πρώτος όλες τις ειδήσεις.
