The Evolution and Consistency of Theological Themes in Human Work and Purpose

Insights from Catholic Saints

The themes of dignity of work, stewardship, the impact of sin, redemption, vocation, continuity of God’s plan, and human cooperation with God are deeply rooted in Christian theology and have shaped the understanding of human purpose throughout history. Although these themes have manifested differently depending on the cultural, economic, and societal contexts of different eras, their fundamental principles have remained consistent. This consistency reflects the unchanging nature of God’s plan for humanity, offering stability and guidance across the ages. The insights of Catholic saints provide vivid examples of how these themes have been lived out and taught throughout history, further illuminating their relevance and continuity. This essay explores how these themes have evolved while maintaining their core significance, enriched by the teachings of saints.

The Dignity of Work: From Agrarian Societies to the Modern Economy

The dignity of work is central in Christian thought, exemplified by the teachings of St. Benedict of Nursia. In founding the Benedictine monastic tradition, St. Benedict emphasized the sanctity of work in his Rule, stating “Ora et labora” (Pray and work). For Benedictines, manual labor was a way of participating in God’s creation, reflecting the dignity inherent in all work, whether in the fields or the scriptorium (Benedict 23). This idea contrasts with the Industrial Revolution, where work often became dehumanizing, yet the Church, following Benedict’s principles, continued to assert the dignity of labor.

In modern times, St. John Paul II echoed this theme in his encyclical Laborem Exercens (1981), where he taught that through work, man not only transforms nature but also achieves fulfillment as a person, becoming “more a human being” (John Paul II, sec. 6). He reinforced the idea that all work, when done with dignity, contributes to the common good and reflects the worker’s inherent worth.

Stewardship: From Local Farming to Global Environmental Responsibility

Stewardship, or the responsible management of God’s creation, has been consistently emphasized by the Church, with St. Francis of Assisi as one of its most iconic proponents. St. Francis’ Canticle of the Sun praises God through the elements of creation, reflecting a profound sense of stewardship and respect for nature. His life and teachings remind Christians that the earth is a gift from God that requires careful and loving care, a message that has resonated through centuries (Francis of Assisi 45).

In more recent history, Pope Francis, inspired by his namesake, has championed stewardship in his encyclical Laudato Si’ (2015). He calls for an “integral ecology,” where the care for the environment is deeply connected with care for humanity, especially the poor (Francis, sec. 139). This teaching builds on the long-standing tradition of stewardship but expands it to address modern global environmental challenges.

The Impact of Sin: From Ancient Societies to Contemporary Social Issues

The theme of sin’s impact on human work and relationships has been a constant throughout history. St. Augustine of Hippo, in his City of God, reflected on the ways sin distorts human society, leading to injustice and exploitation. He recognized that while work was originally intended to be harmonious, sin has introduced conflict, toil, and inequality into human labor (Augustine 22.22).

Similarly, St. Teresa of Calcutta (Mother Teresa) confronted the effects of sin in the modern world, particularly the exploitation and neglect of the poor. Her work with the Missionaries of Charity in the slums of Calcutta serves as a powerful example of how Christians are called to counteract the impact of sin by restoring dignity to those who are marginalized and oppressed (Spink 105). Her life demonstrates the Church’s ongoing commitment to addressing the social consequences of sin.

Redemption and Sanctification: From Monasticism to Lay Participation

Redemption and sanctification through work have evolved significantly, as seen in the lives of saints like St. Thérèse of Lisieux. Though she lived a hidden life in a Carmelite convent, St. Thérèse’s “Little Way” teaches that even the smallest acts, done with great love, have immense value in God’s eyes (Thérèse of Lisieux 97). This idea underscores the sanctification of everyday work, a concept that transcends the traditional monastic setting and applies to all Christians.

St. Josemaría Escrivá further developed this idea in the 20th century, emphasizing that ordinary work can be a path to holiness. He founded Opus Dei to promote the idea that laypeople can achieve sanctification through their daily professional and personal lives. St. Josemaría’s teachings illustrate the continuity of the theme that all work, when offered to God, becomes a means of sanctification, regardless of one’s state in life (Escrivá 18).

Vocation and Purpose: From Medieval Guilds to Modern Professions

The concept of work as a vocation, a calling from God, has deep roots in Christian thought. St. Catherine of Siena, a 14th-century mystic and Doctor of the Church, is a prime example of someone who viewed her life’s work as a divine calling. Though not formally educated, she became an influential advisor to popes and a reformer of the Church, demonstrating that her vocation extended beyond traditional roles, and was a direct response to God’s call (Catherine of Siena 67).

In the modern world, St. John Henry Newman expanded on the idea of vocation, teaching that each person has a specific role in God’s plan, a unique calling that they must discern and follow. His writings encourage individuals to see their professional work, family life, and personal commitments as integral parts of their vocation, thus reinforcing the idea that every person’s life has purpose and meaning in God’s eyes (Newman 145).

Continuity of God’s Plan: Stability in a Changing World

Throughout history, the continuity of God’s plan has provided stability and hope. St. Augustine’s reflection on divine providence in his Confessions illustrates this theme, showing that despite the chaos and changes of the world, God’s plan remains steadfast. Augustine’s life, marked by personal turmoil and eventual conversion, reflects the belief that God’s purpose for humanity is unchanging, offering stability in the midst of life’s uncertainties (Augustine 10.27).

St. Thomas Aquinas also contributed to this understanding by integrating faith and reason, showing that God’s plan can be understood through both divine revelation and human intellect. His Summa Theologica has served as a theological anchor for centuries, providing consistent teaching on the nature of God’s plan and its application to all aspects of life (Aquinas I-II, Q. 93, Art. 1).

Human Cooperation with God: Creativity and Innovation Across the Ages

The theme of human cooperation with God highlights the belief that humans are called to participate in God’s ongoing work of creation. St. Hildegard of Bingen, a 12th-century abbess, theologian, and composer, exemplifies this theme through her contributions to music, medicine, and theology. She viewed her creative work as a direct inspiration from God, a means of participating in His creative power (Hildegard of Bingen 33).

In the modern era, Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati exemplifies this cooperation through his commitment to social justice and charity. A young layman, Pier Giorgio used his talents and resources to serve the poor and promote justice, showing that cooperation with God’s work extends beyond traditional religious roles and into every aspect of life. His life reminds us that every person, regardless of their vocation, is called to be a co-creator with God, bringing His love and justice into the world (Frassati 42).

Conclusion

The themes of dignity of work, stewardship, the impact of sin, redemption, vocation, continuity of God’s plan, and human cooperation with God have evolved throughout history, adapting to different cultural, economic, and societal contexts. Yet, their fundamental principles have remained consistent, reflecting the unchanging nature of God’s plan for humanity. The insights and examples of Catholic saints further illustrate how these themes have been lived out in various historical contexts, offering a rich tapestry of guidance and inspiration for Christians today. Through these enduring themes, Christians are called to live out their faith in every aspect of their lives, participating in God’s ongoing work of creation and redemption, just as the saints have done throughout the ages.

Works Cited

Aquinas, Thomas. Summa Theologica. Translated by the Fathers of the English Dominican Province, Benziger Bros., 1947.

Augustine of Hippo. Confessions. Translated by Henry Chadwick, Oxford UP, 1991.

—. The City of God. Translated by Marcus Dods, Modern Library, 1993.

Benedict of Nursia. The Rule of Saint Benedict. Translated by Leonard J. Doyle, Liturgical Press, 1948.

Catherine of Siena. The Dialogue of Saint Catherine of Siena. Translated by Algar Thorold, CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2011.

Escrivá, Josemaría. The Way. Scepter Publishers, 2002.

Francis of Assisi. The Canticle of the Sun. In Francis and Clare: The Complete Works, translated by Regis J. Armstrong and Ignatius C. Brady, Paulist Press, 1982.

Francis. Laudato Si’: On Care for Our Common Home. Vatican, 24 May 2015. Vatican.va, www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/encyclicals/documents/papa-francesco_20150524_enciclica-laudato-si.html.

Frassati, Pier Giorgio. Letters to His Friends and Family. Edited by Luciana Frassati, Ignatius Press, 2009.

Hildegard of Bingen. Hildegard of Bingen: Scivias. Translated by Columba Hart and Jane Bishop, Paulist Press, 1990.

John Paul II. Laborem Exercens. Vatican, 14 September 1981. Vatican.va, www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_jp-ii_enc_14091981_laborem-exercens.html.

Newman, John Henry. An Essay in Aid of a Grammar of Assent. Oxford UP, 1870.

Spink, Kathryn. Mother Teresa: A Complete Authorized Biography. HarperSanFrancisco, 1997.

Thérèse of Lisieux. Story of a Soul: The Autobiography of St. Thérèse of Lisieux. Translated by John Clarke, ICS Publications, 1996.