On the Indonesian island of Flores—the nation's only Catholic-majority region—a quiet revolution of mercy is underway.
For over two decades, the Missionary Sisters Servants of the Holy Spirit and the Divine Word Missionaries have run TRUK F, the only shelter in Maumere dedicated solely to empowering women and children escaping domestic violence, sexual abuse, and human trafficking. Founded in 1997 by the late Sr. Eustochia Monika Nata, this Catholic-led organization has helped thousands of survivors find safety, healing, and hope.
In this episode of Soulful Scriptures Everyday, we share the stories of women like Evi Bota Sao, who after 20 years of abuse finally found the courage to leave—because someone believed her. And Maria Herlina Mbadhi, whose husband died after being trafficked to a palm oil plantation, leaving her to raise four children alone. And a 17-year-old incest survivor, cast out by her village shaman, who now finds safety in the shelter's care.
Based on reporting by Chris Herlinger for National Catholic Reporter, this deep dive explores how faith, compassion, and accompaniment are transforming lives in a patriarchal society where violence against women is often normalized. The sisters don't judge. They don't force decisions. They simply walk alongside the broken—and help them become "new women."
Join us for a powerful episode about courage, survival, and the Church showing up when it matters most.
Have a testimony or a dream where Jesus or Mother Mary visited you? Share it with us at soulfulscriptureseveryday@gmail.com. Your story could change a life.

Music Credits:

• Song: Mourning Light

• Artist: Arbour Season

• License: Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!)

• https://uppbeat.io/t/arbour-season/mourning-light

• License Code: TC3ZZJYUNAWXVRR4