Pope Pius XII instituted the feast of St Joseph the Worker on 1 May 1955, coinciding it with International Workers Day, or May Day, promoted by the communists. At that time, many countries were turning to communism and turning away from the Church, especially in former Catholic countries. The pope wanted to call back workers who were losing the Christian understanding of work.

Why is work an important part of being a Christian? The foundation is found in Genesis, which describes God’s creation of the world. And after creating it, “God rested on the seventh day.” (Gen 2:1-3) Since work is created by God, it has dignity. So also, the person who works, has dignity. St Paul worked, even as he travelled all over Asia Minor to preach the Gospel. He supported himself as a tentmaker when he was in the city of Corinth (1 Cor 1:1-3). And, he even gave the Thessalonian Christians this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.” (2 Thes 3:10)

St Joseph is considered the role model of a worker. He worked tirelessly to protect and provide for the care of the infant Jesus and His mother, according to God’s plan.

Work is a God given duty and right. It makes us “like God” Who worked to create. Work is good, creative and gives life. Today is a celebration of our human dignity through work.