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Encountering Catholic social teaching in the convent kitchen
There’s a flurry of activity in our kitchen this morning. Sadly, it’s not Sister Julie whipping up some of her Grandma’s top-secret Italian pasta sauce. Happily, the convent is getting new kitchen counters.
When we moved into the convent a couple of years ago, the owner of the apartment said he’d gradually rehab the place. He’s a great guy and has made good on his word. After much pounding and sawing, the old counter was hoisted out in sections and carried down the stairs. The new counters will be installed shortly.
The workers are a terrific team. Seeing them work together is like watching a loud, dusty ballet with dancers in steel-toed boots and power tools. But it’s a hard and grimy dance, especially on a day when the temps are already in the 80s. Sawdust sticks to their sweat-covered faces and arms.
They’re very exacting about their work, and it’s evident that they take great pride in it. It reminds me of Catholic social teaching about the dignity of work, and the respect that every worker deserves. So today, I will keep these workers especially in my prayers.
I invite you to join me in prayer for workers who are part of your life today.
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Having traipst up and down those steps a few times and assisting with relocating Sr. Mildred to her new convent location I know that attempting to install counters will be challenging. Prayers to yours and all laborers who are working “in the fields.”
Ah yes, KC, the steep stairs are a memorable experience
A wonderful young woman came into my life last week. She is a gardener and has been whipping my veggie space into a place of beauty. Because of her I’ve been able to start planting tomatoes, cucumbers and other delights. So I also celebrate the artistry of workers with deep gratitude for their labour. Thanks for honouring one who is literally working “in the field”!
Your gardener angel sounds like a terrific person, Barbara! Blessings to her and all who literally have a hand in bringing food to our tables.
My sympathies are with the “illegal immigrants” who do the hard labor for the fancy folks. I’ve been aware of the poor neighborhoods that are always right next door to the “good” neighborhoods for some time. Kind of like the slave quarters in the south, close, but so far away.
I believe the border problems could be solved if the folks that hire these desperately impoverished people for less than minimum wage, then find ways to get around paying them, could be stopped. Because these workers are legally helpless, it’s unlikely the unscrupulous will change. That is what our Catholic social teaching is up against.
max, your tendency to notice the best in everyone always brings me up a bit. great post.
I love this post. As someone who has been busy from daylight to dark for the past 10 days, I can relate. My fingers ache, my legs and back scream at me and my sunburn is itchy. And I LOVE it all. Truly, I do. I miss my friends in chat but I am in love with our work. Thanks, Max, for a great post!
ps. The garden is looking good and the chickens are having tons of fun.