Labor Day Reflections

Dear Parishioners,

Labor Day is always a special day. There are festivals and celebrations that mark the end of summer. But there are other things to think about. 

I grew up in a town where we had many small manufacturing plants. The unions marched in a parade on Labor Day. There was a lot of pride in the products produced in the various businesses.  

The workers made a living wage and had a manageable work schedule. They had health insurance. If you drove around the community, you noticed that most people kept their properties up and there were nice parks and recreational facilities. 

Unfortunately, at the end of the last century most factories disappeared in my home city and so did jobs. Now my hometown has lost thousands in population because people have moved to other places where they can find work. This is a common story.

Recently, a large factory in this community shut its doors with only 24 hours’ notice. People are faced with tough decisions to make as they seek different jobs.  

The Catholic Church, over the last one hundred fifty years, has tried to support workers and advocate for the right to have jobs with a just wage. The Church also struggles to provide benefits to its employees. Surely all of this is very complex. Labor and management have to keep in mind the common good.

I mention this situation to remind all of us to be aware of those who are struggling right now.  Many families have great needs as the school year begins. 

Let us pray for those who are hurting and let us have our eyes and ears open as to how we might help. Now, as always, we must practice the corporal and spiritual works of mercy.

Blessings,
Fr. Mark