Anti-Trafficking and the Church

Isaiah 43 Ministries

Isaiah 43 Ministries is, in part, an anti-trafficking initiative that seeks to educate, inspire, and motivate the body of Christ to understand God’s heart and seek His guidance in taking action within the anti-trafficking movement.

This blog is to inspire and motivate Christians to engage in this critical fight for the lives of those still trapped in slavery and highlight ministries and people who are involved in the fight.

In 2020, there were 16,658 victims of trafficking identified within the United States. It is important to note that the actual number is likely significantly higher, as many victims remain unidentified. The National Human Trafficking Hotline reported in 2018 that there were only 900 locations across the country offering housing or emergency services for survivors.

Why Anti-Trafficking?

Human trafficking has emerged as a significant issue within the Church over the past decade. Numerous organizations are dedicated to raising awareness about the existence of modern-day slavery, which is thriving in unprecedented ways.

In 2020, there were 16,658 victims of trafficking identified within the United States. It is important to note that the actual number is likely significantly higher, as many victims remain unidentified. The National Human Trafficking Hotline reported in 2018 that there were only 900 locations across the country offering housing or emergency services for survivors.

Advancements in technology and travel have made it easier than ever to exploit, coerce, and sell human beings. In 2021, it was estimated that over 50 million people were living in slavery worldwide, with the two primary forms being labor trafficking and sexual exploitation.

Despite increased discussion surrounding this topic, addressing the issue can feel overwhelming and all-encompassing—rightly so. To effectively combat trafficking, the Church must partner with law enforcement, local establishments, and even its own members to change hearts, rescue individuals, and reduce demand. However, the work isn’t over once they are rescued; many survivors require comprehensive, intensive care and years of support to heal from their traumatic experiences.

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Rachel’s Calling

At the age of 14 I read Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers, a novel loosely based on the story of Hosea in the Bible. As I read, my heart sensed its calling. In the story, the main character escapes prostitution and establishes a home and school for others seeking to leave that life and pursue new opportunities. From that moment, I knew I would one day be involved in a home dedicated to helping women recover and restore their lives.

Over the next 15 years, I engaged with prayer ministries, relational ministries, international ministries, and more to connect with, pray for, and support individuals who had been trapped in trafficking or prostitution. I earned my MA in Justice and Missions from Denver Seminary, focusing on anti-trafficking work, and proceeded to serve as the Director of a home for women and children escaping domestic violence and addiction.

As I move forward, I feel a profound urgency for the Church to understand God’s heart for these vulnerable individuals and how we can engage in more intentional ways to serve and restore them.

Having been part of the Church my entire life across various states, denominations, and even countries, I have developed a strong awareness of the global community and the needs within missions and para-ministry fields. I began participating in mission trips at the age of 12, traveling extensively and experiencing diverse cultures and communities. As a believer, I have gained a broader perspective on the challenges facing the Church and the anti-trafficking movement. My love for the Church, as well as women in need, runs deep.

My prayer for this blog and this ministry is that it will be a space to hold and tell stories. The stories of people's lives. The stories of God's work through humans. The stories of restoration to community. And ultimately, the story of His redeeming love!

Rachel and her husband at Cotopaxi