Servile Work? What is that? Unnecessary? I'm confused.

My daughter asked me about “unnecessary servile” work on Sunday’s and what does this entail? My son-in-law also asked a great question about sedevacanists. So, I thought I’d begin with Sunday and servile work or rather unnecessary servile work first and then roll into the issues with Sedevacanists.

In the creation story, Moses states, "God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it He rested from all His work" (Genesis 2:3). Since we are created in God's image, we are called to follow His example: just as God rested on the seventh day, we too should rest after six days of work. This rest is essential for humans. After six days of labor, just as we need sleep to restore our strength after a day of activity, we also need a more extended period of rest to rejuvenate.

Interestingly, it was during the French Revolution, the traditional seven-day week was replaced with a ten-day week, but it quickly became apparent that the extra three days was a bit much, and the seven-day cycle was restored. More importantly, if you recall the number seven is tied to the natural order. God, created the celestial bodies to mark time for signs, seasons, days, and years (Genesis 1:14), designed the moon's phases, which change roughly every seven days, to guide humanity in dividing time into seven-day periods, with one day set aside for rest.

Looking back at the second century and we read from Bishop Theophilus of Antioch, around 150 A.D., noted that the observance of a seventh day of rest was a widespread custom. As Christians, we observe Sunday as a day of rest and worship, while others follow different traditions: Jews honor Saturday, Muslims observe Friday.

The importance if you will of resting every seventh day symbolizes the eternal rest awaiting us in Heaven (Hebrews 4:9). By dedicating this day to the Lord, we renew our hope and anticipation for the everlasting joy of Heaven. Even the tradition of wearing our best clothes on this day serves as a reminder of the heavenly happiness we aspire to one day experience. Please re-read that ; the tradition of wearing our best clothes…that would be nice to see as well…sorry I’ve digressed.

As Catholics, Christians, we understand that Sunday is a celebration of the Holy Trinity. On the first day of the week, God the Father began the work of creation, God the Son rose from the dead, and God the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles. But the Apostles were Jews and earlier it was noted that Jews celebrate the Sabbath on Saturday NOT Sunday. So why is it now Sunday? Great question, the Apostles were given the authority to move the day of rest from Saturday to Sunday because the commandment emphasized the observance of a specific day each week, rather than the Sabbath itself. Therefore this change from Saturday to Sunday was/is fitting, as the Old Law was/is a precursor to the New.

Sunday is also called the Lord's Day because it is meant to be dedicated to His service, especially in remembrance of His resurrection. Again, going back to the 2nd Century we read from St. Justin Martyr, around 139 A.D., who was the first to use the term "Sunday." The name reflects the day on which Christ, like the rising sun, rose from the grave in the glory of His resurrected humanity. It is also the day when God created light, the Holy Spirit descended in tongues of fire, and we are spiritually enlightened.

You may already know this, the Emperor Constantine the Great established Sunday as a day of rest throughout the Roman Empire, and Charlemagne reinforced this observance by imposing fines on those who violated it.

Bottom line, the Catholic Church defines servile work as tasks involving strenuous physical effort, typically performed by servants, laborers, and artisans—those engaged in manual or subordinate work. The term comes from the idea of "service." Buying, selling, and commercial activities are also included in this. However, in some places, local customs allow certain exceptions. Despite this flexibility, commercial activities should not occur during hours set aside for worship. Just as God rested on the seventh day, we are called to do the same. On Easter Sunday, Christ left His grave clothes behind and rose victorious, symbolizing how we too should set aside worldly concerns and elevate our hearts to God through prayer. Rest is essential, as physical exhaustion can hinder meaningful prayer.

Lets take this to the next level and really dive into what is and what is not acceptable and leave some room for you to consider if what you are or are not doing is against the teaching of the Magisterium.

Public Worship and the Mass
The Mass is the highest form of Christian worship and is usually accompanied by a sermon. Early Christians gathered on Sundays to hear Mass and a short exhortation after the Gospel, much like today. Sunday rest gives us time to focus on spiritual matters and receive the Sacraments. The Church encourages Holy Communion and private devotions on Sundays, often accompanied by afternoon services and open churches for prayer. In earlier times, people would read spiritual books or the lives of saints on Sundays. Many of Christ's miracles, such as healing the man with the withered hand (Matthew 12:10) or the blind man (John 9), occurred on the Sabbath, showing His intention to encourage good works on holy days.

What IS Permissible Work on Sundays
Certain kinds of work are allowed on Sundays and holy days:

Necessary servile work, such as acts of mercy.
Light or minor tasks that are not burdensome.
Intellectual pursuits, such as reading or writing.
Reasonable recreation for rest and enjoyment.
Work necessary for daily life, such as preparing meals, harvesting crops in dangerous weather, or maintaining public services like mail, railways, and law enforcement, or if you happen to be on a swing shift due to your employer, is also allowed. Church authorities can permit servile work on Sundays if there is a sufficient reason

The Spirit of Sunday Observance

The purpose of Sunday is to nourish spiritual well-being. Works that promote salvation and charity are strongly encouraged, such as helping the sick or performing acts of mercy.
Necessary charitable work exempts individuals from attending public worship but still constitutes worship in its own way (James 1:27).
However, if possible, public worship should not be neglected.

Sins Against the Third Commandment-If you’re wondering why this is here, go back and read the Third Commandment again:

Engaging in servile work unnecessarily
Christians must ensure that even servants and animals rest on Sundays (Exodus 20:10).
Working unnecessarily for extended periods is a serious sin unless justified by necessity. Light or short-term work may be excusable, but deliberate disregard for Sunday rest can lead to spiritual harm and scandal.
Neglecting public worship
Activities on Saturday night that cause fatigue and result in missing Mass are common causes of this sin. St. Francis de Sales criticized those who prioritize entertainment over their spiritual duties.
Engaging in sinful or overly strenuous diversions
Recreational activities that are excessively tiring or lead to immoral behavior, such as gambling, excessive drinking, or improper dancing, violate the sanctity of Sunday.
Using Sunday for vice or worldly excesses is a grave misuse of the day.

Motivations for Honoring Sunday

Temporal blessings for honoring the Lord's Day
God rewards those who keep His day holy. Taking Sunday rest does not hinder success; in fact, it often enhances productivity and well-being. Rest rejuvenates both body and spirit, making people more effective in their work.
Consequences of profaning Sunday
Violating Sunday rest often leads to physical, spiritual, and societal harm. Overworking on Sundays can lead to health issues, poverty, and a breakdown in moral values.
Strengthening family and society
Observing Sunday strengthens family bonds and social harmony. Families who attend worship together nurture faith and moral values. Neglecting this duty leads to weakened relationships, moral decline, and disregard for God’s law.
Keeping Sunday holy ensures both spiritual and temporal benefits. It helps us rest, reflect, and prepare for eternal life. Those who fail to honor this day risk losing their connection with God and jeopardizing their eternal happiness. Observing Sunday as a day of rest, worship, and renewal allows us to lay up treasures that last forever.

What about “laws?” Are there any laws that the Church has in place and why? What can these possibly do for me and my spiritual wellbeing? Let’s consider the following and again, this is being presented so you have a better awareness of what it is that we believe to be true. If these are the first time you are hearing about these Canons, please take some time and get with your pastor and/or deacon and ask them to provide a class or something similar so the laity will know and understand their responsibilities.

The Sanctification of Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation

As we read and understand in Canon 1246 §1, Sunday is the foremost holy day of obligation in the universal Church, commemorating the Resurrection of Christ and the paschal mystery. It is the foundation of Christian life and worship, set apart for public participation in the Mass and rest from servile labor.

On Sundays and holy days of obligation (Can. 1247), Catholics are obliged to participate in the Eucharistic celebration. This obligation can also be fulfilled by attending Mass on the evening of the preceding day (Can. 1248 §1). The faithful are further called to avoid work or activities that interfere with worship, the joy of the day, or proper rest.

This aligns with the spiritual principles outlined above that stated: Sunday is a time to set aside earthly concerns, devote ourselves to prayer, participate in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, and embrace the peace of God.

Rest and Recreation in Accordance with the Lord’s Day

Canon 1247 reinforces the importance of dedicating Sunday not only to worship but also to proper relaxation of mind and body. Physical rest is seen as necessary for spiritual renewal, enabling deeper participation in prayer and devotion.

Unnecessary servile work, as previously discussed, detracts from the sanctity of the Lord’s Day. Only work deemed necessary—such as acts of mercy, duties essential for life, or public services—is permitted. This perspective aligns with Christ's teaching that “the Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath” (Mark 2:27), emphasizing the balance between worship and human needs.

Encouraging Penitential Practices: The Role of Friday Observance

In addition to Sunday, the Church designates Fridays throughout the year as penitential days (Can. 1250). These days call Christians to reflect on the Passion of Christ and express contrition for sin. Canon 1251 requires abstinence from meat or another form of penance, unless a solemnity falls on a Friday. During Lent, fasting and abstinence are obligatory on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, fostering a communal spirit of penance.

While these practices may not seem as universally emphasized today, the faithful are strongly encouraged to integrate them into their lives as an ongoing sign of devotion. Abstinence on Fridays is an opportunity to step away from worldly indulgences and unite oneself with Christ's sacrifice. Canon 1253 allows local bishops to adapt or substitute penitential practices, emphasizing works of charity or piety as alternatives.

Practical Applications for Modern Christians

Sunday Worship and Rest:

Begin the day with Mass to fulfill the obligation and center the day on God.
Avoid unnecessary work or distractions that detract from worship and spiritual reflection.
Use the time for family, spiritual reading, or acts of charity, such as visiting the sick or assisting those in need.
Friday Penance: Abstain from meat, as prescribed, or choose a comparable act of sacrifice (e.g., giving up sweets or media consumption). Engage in acts of charity or prayer to deepen the penitential spirit of the day.
Aligning with Canon 1249: The divine law calls for penance as a shared observance in the Church. Through fasting, prayer, and charity, the faithful grow closer to Christ and foster unity within the Body of Christ.
Parents and Educators (Can. 1252): Those responsible for the spiritual formation of others should teach the meaning and value of penance, encouraging its practice even among those not obligated by age. This helps instill a lifelong sense of spiritual discipline.
A Call to Renewed Commitment

The observance of Sunday and Friday practices is not merely a matter of obligation but an invitation to live the faith more fully. By dedicating Sunday to worship, rest, and renewal, and embracing Friday as a day of penitence, Catholics draw closer to God and the mystery of salvation.

As emphasized by the Church, these practices provide opportunities for spiritual growth, gratitude, and alignment with God's will, serving as reminders of His love and our ultimate goal: eternal communion with Him.

The observance of Sundays, holy days, and penitential practices like the Friday fast provides a sacred rhythm that guides the lives of the faithful toward greater communion with God. These practices are not mere rules or obligations; they are profound opportunities for renewal, reflection, and growth in holiness.

Sunday, as the primordial day of worship, anchors us in the joy of the Resurrection, reminding us weekly of the victory of Christ over sin and death. It calls us to set aside earthly concerns and focus on worship, community, and rest. Similarly, holy days of obligation highlight key moments in the story of salvation and invite us to celebrate the mysteries of Christ and the saints who inspire us to live faithfully.

Friday, as a weekly penitential day, offers a counterbalance—a time to remember Christ’s Passion and cultivate humility, gratitude, and repentance. Through fasting, abstinence, or acts of charity, we align ourselves with the sacrificial love of Christ, fostering deeper spiritual discipline.

Together, these practices teach us to sanctify time, living each week with intention and purpose. By setting apart these sacred days, we are reminded that our ultimate purpose is not found in worldly pursuits but in drawing closer to God and participating in His divine life.

As we embrace these traditions, we unite with the universal Church in worship, penance, and renewal, strengthening our bond as members of the Body of Christ. Let us approach each Sunday and Friday with renewed commitment, seeing them not as burdens but as blessings—a framework that helps us journey faithfully toward eternal life.

God Bless