This week we celebrate Labor Day, a holiday to honor the hard work and determination of those who built, and continue to build, our country. There is goodness, value, and dignity in work: from the contributions of those who toiled during the infancy of our nation to the men and women of today who add to our comfort and quality of life. May no one be without employment, may all be paid fairly, and may each person receive respect in their workplace. As Pope Francis says: “work is more than a mere doing; it is, above all, a mission. Jesus invites us to follow in his footsteps through work.” May we always value the dignity of work and never forget its ultimate purpose: to praise God and to serve one another!