You were made for work

Dear Parishioners,

I want to take a moment to acknowledge the incredible strength, resilience, and dedication you demonstrate every day as a Catholic in the workplace.  Work is a gift from God, existing even before the Fall, and is a way to cooperate with God's plan for the world.  You become witnesses to Christ when you engage with your neighbors, co-workers, customers, students, and fellow farmers in the workspace.  I especially want to encourage all our families struggling with various challenges.  Hardship can be overwhelming, and difficult decisions may weigh heavily on your hearts. Yet, even amidst these challenges, I want to remind you that hope is never lost.  Your perseverance, guided by faith, is a powerful testament to the trust you place in God's divine plan.

In reflection, I encourage you to ponder Matthew 6:26-30:

"Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you, by worrying, add a single hour to your life? And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith?"

Just as God cares for the birds and the flowers, He cares deeply for you and your work.  His loving care is present even in times of uncertainty. Even in moments of uncertainty, hope remains our guiding light, reminding us that after every storm, there is a new dawn.

Scripture reminds us: "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9) Your labor is a sacred gift, nourishing not just the body but also the soul of our communities.  May God's grace continue to nurture your fields and strengthen your spirits. Keep hope alive and trust in His promises—your faith and hard work are planting seeds of blessing that will flourish in His time.

In Christ,

Fr. Luke Fleck