Ora et labora, Latin for "pray and work" finds its roots in Catholic mysticism, and refers to the monastic life of prayer and work. This Labor Day weekend, which celebrates the work and accomplishments of American workers, is often the ending of the Summer and the beginning of the academic year. It is also in many churches, the restarting of ministries that have taken a summer break. Here at Saint Agnes our choirs resume practicing and will soon be leading sung prayer at weekend masses once again.
As we celebrate with picnics, baseball, (the upcoming NFL season!), and family time, let us also take time to pray and give thanks. Giving thanks for the gifts and talents we've received, for the ability to work, for those whose work serves others, and in a special way this year, for those who are working tirelessly to prepare for the Apostolic visit of our Holy Father, Pope Francis.
Let us pray.
As we celebrate with picnics, baseball, (the upcoming NFL season!), and family time, let us also take time to pray and give thanks. Giving thanks for the gifts and talents we've received, for the ability to work, for those whose work serves others, and in a special way this year, for those who are working tirelessly to prepare for the Apostolic visit of our Holy Father, Pope Francis.
Let us pray.
On this weekend, when we rest from our usual labors, loving Father, we pray for all who shoulder the tasks of human labor—in the marketplace, in factories and offices, in the professions, and in family living.
We thank you, Lord, for the gift and opportunity of work; may our efforts always be pure of heart, for the good of others and the glory of your name.
We lift up to you all who long for just employment and those who work to defend the rights and needs of workers everywhere.
May those of us who are now retired always remember that we still make a valuable contribution to our Church and our world by our prayers and deeds of charity.
May our working and our resting all give praise to you until the day we share together in eternal rest with all our departed in your Kingdom as you live and reign Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
(C) Archdiocese of Detroit, MI
We thank you, Lord, for the gift and opportunity of work; may our efforts always be pure of heart, for the good of others and the glory of your name.
We lift up to you all who long for just employment and those who work to defend the rights and needs of workers everywhere.
May those of us who are now retired always remember that we still make a valuable contribution to our Church and our world by our prayers and deeds of charity.
May our working and our resting all give praise to you until the day we share together in eternal rest with all our departed in your Kingdom as you live and reign Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
(C) Archdiocese of Detroit, MI