We celebrate Labor Day this weekend.

It is an idea which came to us from Europe when people were divided into two distinct classes: the upper class and the lower class, the owners and the laborers. Labor Day was set aside to honor the humble, working people of the land. In time, the U.S. made its celebration to include organized labor, unions and all of that, which shows that our celebration has grown beyond the original concept. Those who champion the cause of the working people are very much like Jesus: they are watchmen for their people. Labor Day is a wonderful day for it serves to remind us that, no matter how successful we are, we should not Lord it over the least of those amongst us.

We need to ask ourselves: are we attentive to what Labor Day really means? Have we empathy for those who are out of work during this coronavirus pandemic? Are we sensitive to the desperate struggle of the unemployed in our society, the plight of poor farmers and the citizens of the third world? Are we aware of the real, human needs of our community? Are we prepared to give as well as to receive? Are we willing to support local outreach programs so that the burden of providing services to the needy does not fall on just a few?

A good Christian will take corrective measures to improve, not only personal behavior, but also the social order by working for a more just society where everyone has equal opportunities under the law.

So, do not be timid about celebrating this special day. Labor Day reminds us that we are, indeed, our brother’s keeper, and that we need to work together to create a better world for everyone.

I want to wish a Happy Labor Day to all my friends, family, neighbors, and readers. This day is important because we honor the work we do, day in and day out of our lives.

Mankind has to earn a living through work, or by “the sweat of one’s brow,” as scripture says. Whether it is digging ditches, building a church, or running a company, it is all part of our daily labor.

This time of the year, we rest from labor.

Enjoy!

—Fr. Hugh Duffy