Fr. Simon's Letter - September 5, 2021

For most of us ‘Labor Day’ marks the end of summer – one last picnic or barbecue before we begin a new school year and gear up for fall and winter. However, with school starting in the middle of August, we get a jump start on a calendar that is loaded with events like parents’ visits to colleges, sporting events, planning for the holidays and more.

‘Labor Day’ gives us a moment to pause and celebrate the contributions American workers have made toward the strength, prosperity and well-being of our country. COVID-19 has changed our work habits and added pressure to some sectors of the global workforce. Let us gratefully remember the contributions of all workers, especially those in health care and public health, law enforcement and public safety, food and agriculture, energy, transportation and logistics, public works, information technology, critical manufacturing, financial services and national security.

In the recommended first reading for Mass on Labor Day ‘For the sanctification of human labor,’ we are reminded that human work was not an imposition due to sin. When God had finished the work of creation, he blessed the human persons and instructed them to ‘Be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it.’ Human work was originally a collaboration with God in perfecting nature. We must celebrate the dignity afforded to us as collaborators with God in the work of creation and perfecting what God has begun. Each one of us is called to work in some way. The gifts and talents with which we are blessed, our age and our ability may determine the kind of work in which we can engage. However, we must remember that even those who have limited mobility, physical capacity or are bedridden can offer their prayers and sufferings for the good of others. Let us all remember that the ability to work is a blessing for our own good and for the good of others. 

Next weekend we will celebrate the 11am Mass on the field. We welcome you to bring your lawn chairs. Those who have difficulty navigating the field can be seated in front of the basilica on Sauganash Avenue, which will be closed to traffic following the 9:30am Mass. Please note that access to the north entrance parking lot from Sauganash and Keene avenues will be blocked from 9:15 am. All entry into and exit from the parking lot will be at the south from Keene Avenue. After Mass, the Parish Pastoral Council will host a Ministry Fair. Please plan to visit the tables to learn about and get involved in one or more of the many ministries of the parish. Also following Mass, the Men’s Club will serve up a feast of brats, sausages and hot-dogs, along with ice-cream and other goodies. There will be ‘jumpies’ for kids and other fun activities for kids of all ages. Come with your family and celebrate our community. I look forward to seeing you on September 12th!!

Blessings!!