St Joseph the Worker

'St Joseph the worker' by Gerard von Horthorst

We honor today St Joseph, foster father of Jesus. His liturgical feast is actually celebrated on March 19th, but today we honor him as the patron of workers. Renowned to be a carpenter, Joseph taught the tricks of the trade to his son Jesus, and people invoke his prayers when searching for a job or looking for work. May Day celebrations are held around the world, especially in communist countries, but the Church emphasizes the image of Joseph as the patron of all those who work. To foster deep devotion to Saint Joseph among Catholics, and in response to the “May Day” celebrations for workers sponsored by Communists, Pope Pius XII instituted the feast of Saint Joseph the Worker in 1955.

Lord Jesus, as the world celebrates May Day today, the church celebrates the feast of Saint Joseph, patron saint of workers, and so our thoughts and prayers go to all those who work, those searching for work and that the dignity of all workers be respected and honored everywhere.
We pray for those who work with their hands, carpenters, construction workers, loggers, farmers, ranchers, fishermen, writers, printers, nurses, carers, sculptors, painters, engineers, cooks, chefs, and yes, even baseball, snooker and football players. May they always stay focused on the work at hand and avoid any accidents or mishaps. We also pray for those who use their minds at work, doctors, lawyers, accountants, counsellors, planners and inventors, politicians and strategists, priests and teachers, and mothers and fathers who use both hands and mind and heart.
We ask you Lord to provide work opportunities for those parents who need some form of income to support their families. May employers and employees collaborate together and see good, productive work accomplished with dedication, honesty and commitment. And as we continue the work of creation, remind us also to rest on specified days, and never waste any time at work. We ask this prayer through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.