Dignity and Work and the Rights of Workers
September 2025
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Core Principle
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The dignity of work is rooted in the belief that labor is not merely a commodity, but a sacred expression of human creativity and participation in God’s ongoing creation. As Pope Leo XIII wrote in Rerum Novarum, “It is neither just nor human so to grind men down with excessive labor as to stupefy their minds and wear out their bodies.” Work must honor the human person, not exploit them.
Catholic Social Teaching affirms that every worker deserves fair wages, safe conditions, rest, and the right to organize. These rights are not privileges—they are reflections of human dignity. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches: “Work is for man, not man for work”
Scriptural Reflection
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Worthy is the laborer of his wage.
Luke 10:7
Prayer & Petitions
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Lord of Creation,
You formed us in Your image and gave us the gift of work to cultivate the earth and serve one another. Help us to honor the dignity of every worker, and to build systems that reflect justice, compassion, and solidarity.
We offer these intentions:
- For all workers across the six counties of the Diocese of Pittsburgh—may they be treated with fairness, respect, and dignity
- For those unemployed, underemployed, or exploited—may they find meaningful work and just compensation
- For laborers in dangerous or unjust conditions—may their cries be heard and their rights upheld
- For unions, worker advocates, and Catholic ministries—may their efforts reflect the Gospel call to justice
- For employers and business leaders—may they prioritize people over profit, and foster workplaces of equity and care
- For the growth and impact of the Gismondi Job Training Program—may it continue to equip more individuals with skills for the telecommunications industry, opening doors to stable employment and economic dignity
- For all Catholic Charities employees—may they be strengthened in their vocations, supported in their service, and renewed in their commitment to uphold human dignity through compassionate care
- In thanksgiving for all who labor in hidden and humble ways—may their work be honored and their spirits renewed
- Through the intercession of St. Joseph the Worker, patron of laborers and craftsmen—may all workers be protected, guided, and uplifted in their vocations
That the dignity of work may shape not just our policies, but our hearts—drawing us into deeper communion with Christ, the carpenter of Nazareth, who labored with love and lifted up the lowly.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.