On Labor Day : The Dignity Of Work And The Rights Of Workers

St. Joseph the Worker

The economy must serve 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 the organization and joining of unions, to private property, and to economic initiative.

To build a just economy is to make decent work at decent wages available for all those capable of working. When the economy fails to generate sufficient jobs, there is a moral obligation to protect the life and dignity of unemployed and underemployed workers and their families.

"Work is fundamental to the dignity of a person. Work, to use an image, 'anoints' us with dignity, fills us with dignity, makes us similar to God, who has worked and still works, who always acts..."
- Pope Francis, Feast of St. Joseph the Worker and World Labor Day, 5/1/13

"I address a strong appeal from my heart that the dignity and safety of the worker always be protected."
- Pope Francis, Regina Caeli, 4/28/13

- USCCB