Pray for Workers Doing Thankless Jobs
Especially those who are most discouraged.
By Beverly Mantyh
Where would the world be without all the people who care enough to do their “little jobs” well? Cashiers brighten moments by making the effort to smile or joke as they say, “Have a nice day.” Janitorial staff polish and dust without ever being seen. Caregivers take the time to smile and chat as they perform their duties.
Edith Stein understood the importance of these unappreciated workers. Stein compared those who perform “small” jobs to Mary at the Wedding of Cana, “in her quiet, observing look (she) surveys everything and discovers what is lacking. Before anything is noticed, even before embarrassment sets in, she has procured already the remedy.” This is the role of all support staff. They “look for the concrete goal and adjust the means to the end.”
Edith Stein sees women contributing to the workplace in a special way, no matter what their position, because “everything inanimate finally serves the living.” The unsung heroes, performing the same thankless tasks day and night, can use our prayer and support so they can continue to serve God’s people with hope for their own futures.
The Catholic Health Association has prayers for caregivers on their website, including one just for nursing assistants.
The USCCB has a page of its website dedicated to Dignity and Rights of Workers. It lists the clear biblical and Church documents that support workers' rights.
Catholic Relief Services has videos on Catholic social teachings that are short and informative. The video on Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers is helpful.
LORD, let us pray:
* for fair reimbursement and benefits for those who work jobs that are not traditionally seen as elite;
* for health and wellness needed to accomplish the physical tasks of difficult work;
* for workers who struggle to make ends meet, that they would find the resources they need to cover their needs and those of their families;
* for unhappy workers, that they would be blessed with strength to complete work they do not enjoy-- and the courage to take up new opportunities;
* that all God’s people would be blessed with the humility necessary to see those in service positions as equal before the Lord;
* that supervisors will encourage and reward those who work so hard, and discover the mercy promised to the merciful; and
* that those who work in “little jobs” would be blessed with hope, perseverance and joy.