In our Catholic tradition, work is more than just a way to make a living; work is one of the ways we participate in the ongoing work of creation in our world. Those who are responsible for the employment of people have a special responsibility to make decisions that uphold the dignity and safety of workers and their rights.
Dignity of Work & Rights of Workers
Guiding Principles
The economy must serve the people, not the other way around. Work is more than a way to make a living; it is a form of continuing participation in God’s creation. If the dignity of work is to be protected, then the basic rights of workers must be respected – the right to productive work, to decent and fair wages, to a safe working environment and to organization and joining of unions, to private property, and to economic initiative.
Related Social Issues
- living wages
- fair hiring practices
- availability of job training/skills
- discrepancy in employment for women and minorities
- job availability for thriving not just surviving
- underemployment
Liturgical Resources
Intentions for the Universal Prayer
Musical Suggestions
Teachers & Parents
Youth Prayer
Almighty God, whose hands hold all matters of life, give me grace of success in the work I do. Help me to give it the careful thought and strict attention that will lead to success. Watch over me and govern my actions, that I may not mar its perfection. Show me how to give my best, and let me not despise the toil that is necessary to complete it. Make my life a successful one, in that every duty you give me, I do it well. Give me the blessing of your help and guidance, and suffer me not to fail in Jesus’ name,
Amen
Adult Prayer
Lord God, Master of the Vineyard, How wonderful that you have invited us who labor by the sweat of our brow to be workers in the vineyard and assist your work to shape the world around us. As we seek to respond to this call, make us attentive to those who seek work but cannot find it. Help us listen to the struggles of those who work hard to provide for their families but still have trouble making ends meet. Open our eyes to the struggles of those exploited and help us speak for just wages and safe conditions, the freedom to organize, and time for renewal. For work was made for humankind and not humankind for work. Let it not be a vehicle for exploitation but a radiant expression of our human dignity. Give all who labor listening hearts that we may pause from our work to receive your gift of rest. Fill us with your Holy Spirit that you might work through us to let your justice reign. Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
