"All work has a threefold moral significance. First, it is a principle way that people exercise the distinctive human capacity for self-expression and self-realization. Second, it is the ordinary way for human beings to fulfill their material needs. Finally, work enables people to contribute to the well-being of the larger community. Work is not only for one's self. It is for one's family, for the nation, and indeed for the benefit of the entire human family." (Economic Justice for All, #97)

"Yet the workers' rights cannot be doomed to be the mere result of economic systems aimed at maximum profits. The thing that must shape the whole economy is respect for the workers' rights within each country and all through the world's economy." (On Human Work, #17)

Notable Quotations from Scripture and Catholic Social Teaching

      Fair Trade
      Labor
      Immigration
      Economic Justice

In Catholic tradition, work is more than a way to make a living; it is sacred . the primary means through which human beings participate in God's creative activity in our world. If the dignity of work is to be protected, then the basic rights of workers must be respected - the right to productive work, to decent living wages; to organize; to economic initiative, and to ownership and private property. Respecting these rights promotes an economy that protects human life, defends human rights, and advances the well-being of all.

While people have a basic right to economic initiative, this right has its limits. No person should amass excessive wealth when others lack the basic necessities of life.