On May 1st, the Church commemorates St Joseph the Worker, celebrating not just the foster father of Jesus, but also the dignity of human labour. Instituted by Pope Pius XII in 1955, this feast day aligned the Church’s teachings with the global observance of Labour Day, offering St Joseph as a model for workers around the world.
In the Gospels, Joseph is a quiet presence—no recorded words, only actions. He is described simply as a “just man” and a carpenter. Yet, it is through his daily toil, his obedience, and his unwavering commitment to his family that he participates in God’s plan of salvation. Joseph reminds us that the value of work is not in its prestige but in the spirit of service and love with which it is done.
This message resonates strongly here in Goa, where generations have embraced the dignity of work in fields, fishing boats, kitchens, and workshops. One such story comes from a small village of Arossim in Salcete, where an elderly man named João was well known for crafting wooden cribs for Christmas. He would begin in August, working patiently under the shade of a mango tree. João wasn’t a skilled carpenter, and his tools were simple, but every crib carried the mark of his devotion. When asked why he spent so much time on them, especially when buyers were few, he would smile and say, “I learned from St Joseph. He never rushed his work. He built for love, not for show.”
There’s a beautiful old Konkani saying that captures this spirit:
“Kam korchem, Devak borchem.”
It reminds us that every honest effort, no matter how small, is an offering to the Divine. This month, take a moment to observe and acknowledge people who work behind the scenes – be it at Church or in any other aspect of your life. These are the people working tirelessly without looking for praise.
In a world driven by speed, competition, and consumption, St Joseph stands as a counter-cultural figure. He teaches us that our jobs—whether at a desk or in the fields—can become a path to holiness when done with integrity and offered to God.
As we celebrate St Joseph the Worker, let us renew our respect for every honest job. May we, like Joseph, find joy in the work of our hands and offer it as a gift to God.
St. Joseph the Worker, pray for us, bless our community in Aquem with skill and will.
– Louella Santimano Dias