The Church believes that work is important. It is more than just a way to earn money; it is a way to participate in God’s creation. Because the ability to work honors human dignity, the economy should serve people.

Those of us who are fortunate to be born in the United States do not usually think about our rights as American citizens in the job force until we are affected by the adverse reality of unemployment or underemployment. There is a true struggle for those striving to make ends meet and fight for a better life in the United States and all over the world.

Evils can be seen in the form of unfair wages, pay inequality between men and women, working in poor air quality, improper equipment being utilized and poor training that could cause harm.

As we are approaching the warm months some of us are fortunate to work in air conditioning and ventilated spaces; others are not. Have you ever put yourself in the shoes of those that travel from other countries to work in the fields here in Mid-Michigan? They pick the produce that you buy for your family. Think about their working conditions and the lack of dignity some of these workers go through due to the lack of workers’ rights. Where do you fit into the bigger picture? All of us can take a stance in providing dignity to work and the rights of workers. Many parishes take donations to help ease these workers’ needs. Is your parish one of these? Be the force of change for these workers! Seek how you can make a difference.