Many countries celebrate International Workers’ Day on May 1 (May Day). Throughout the 20th century this day became associated with the rise of communism and atheism. Pope Pius XII wanted to counter this narrative and in 1955 he instituted the feast of St. Joseph, the Worker. As a carpenter and working man, St. Joseph had traditionally been invoked as a patron of workers. The Pope therefore proclaimed St. Joseph (rather than Marx) as the best model for working men and women.
Because of the connection to communism, the U.S. does not observe May 1 as a day to honor workers. Congress chose the beginning of September to honor and recognize the American labor movement and the contributions of all laborers in building up our nation.
On Labor Day the Church in the U.S. suggests that mass be celebrated for the Sanctification of Human Labor, recalling the sanctity of all work. At mass this day, St. Joseph is often remembered and invoked as a model and inspiration. He reminds us of the dignity and sacred calling of all workers.
Because of his lifelong work, his daily devotion to his faith and his constant care for Jesus and Mary, St. Joseph was chosen as the patron saint of religious brothers. The Church in the U.S. expanded on this connection between St. Joseph and the ministry of the vowed life by declaring May 1 as National Religious Brothers Day. It is a day to celebrate the baptismal call and public profession of those men who live the Gospel as brothers in community.
The Oblates of St. Francis de Sales are a community blessed by the presence of brothers and priests. As we celebrate Labor Day and honor all workers, perhaps we can also recall the work and ministry of those men who have spread the spirit of St. Francis de Sales as religious brothers.
This summer two of our brothers reached significant milestones. Brother Joseph Schodowski, OSFS, celebrated 40 years of profession as an Oblate and Brother Dan Wisniewski, OSFS, celebrated 25 years as a professed Oblate. Congratulations to Brother Joe and Brother Dan! May they, and all of our Oblate brothers, continue to be an example of how we are all called to “live Jesus” in every work, every vocation, every aspect of our lives.
St. Joseph, the worker, pray for us.
