Dawn Carpenter on Answering the Call to Work

"Recent studies show a need for a greater understanding of labor as a Christian call to work. Nearly half the people on the planet are workers. Statically speaking, the UN's International Labour Organization tallies the world-wide workforce at nearly three billion. Standing hand-in-hand, these workers would circle the globe 11 times. Needless to say, what work looks like throughout the world can be dramatically different. Factors such as national affluence and the respect for the rule of law and private property are important - just as are the levels of education, training, and opportunity available to workers. Despite these often vast differences in the world of work, what is remarkably similar are workers' feelings about engagement with their work.

"According to Gallup’s study of 142 countries entitled the State of the Global Workplace, only 13% of employees worldwide feel engaged at work. This means that only one in every eight workers is mentally committed to his work in such a way as to be open to making fruitful contributions to his organization and community. This is a striking commentary on man's place in the world of work.

"A Christian approach to work offers another way: an orientation to work and the calling of the worker that is rooted in man's relationship with God and creation. This orientation is expressed in what can be called a 'calling to work.'"

In a recent commentary, writer Dawn Carpenter reflected on a Christian's call to work as an opportunity to use his/her gifts and energies to help meet the needs of the world and the community and as a continuation of the Lord's redemptive work.

To access Ms. Carpenter's complete post, please visit:

Catholic Stand: Answering the Call to Work (16 JAN 16)