First, the Jubilee of Workers, then the Jubilee of Entrepreneurs: in the Holy Year calendar, the month of May begins with two appointments dedicated to the workforce. This is certainly no coincidence, given the significance of May 1 in many countries; just as it is no coincidence that Pope Francis’ prayer intention for this month is dedicated precisely to working conditions.
Some things we sometimes take for granted a worthy job, a fair wage, recognition of essential benefits-are actually not. United Nations data tell us that, even today, more than 60 percent of the working-age population is employed in the informal economy, that is, in undeclared work, and that in many cases working is not even enough to survive, because 240 million people receive a wage of less than $3.65 a day. Francis, therefore, asks us to pray “that through work every person may be fulfilled, families may be sustained with dignity and society may become more humane.”
Dignity is certainly a key word: both in the Holy Father’s prayer intention and in his speech – taken from the Jan. 12, 2022 General Audience – that accompanies it in this month’s Pope’s Video. Indeed, Francis calls work “an anointing of dignity,” reminding us that “what gives you dignity is not bringing bread home. What gives you dignity is earning bread.” He then adds that work is “an essential component in human life,” because “it is a way of expressing our personality” and of self-actualization.
Francis’ reflection draws from the image of St. Joseph, who not only supported his family by being a carpenter, but also taught the trade to Jesus. Therefore, it is precisely to St. Joseph that we entrust, together with the Pope, all those people today who work in undignified conditions or who, although they persistently seek it, cannot find a job. And let us not forget to thank the Lord for the work we have, wondering if we are doing enough to put to good use the talents He Himself has given us.
Andrea Sarubbi
The Pope’s Video Coordinator