The Mass for Day Laborers on April 30 recognized the work this group does for their families, the dedication they have to their faith, and the volunteer contributions they make to their communities.

“We can recognize the voice of the Lord in our lives when we cultivate our relationship with Him,” Father Enrique Salvo, rector of St. Patrick’s Cathedral where the Mass was held, said during his homily. “It is not only that Jesus tells us that He is our Good Shepherd and we are His herd. He tells us that He knows each of us by our name. We are human souls created in the image of God.”

Fr. Salvo, who also served as principal celebrant, noted that it was Good Shepherd Sunday and that the next day was the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker.                 

“There are sacrifices that must be made in life, like all of you who work so much for your families; many times it is difficult, especially when you arrive at an unfamiliar place. But Jesus Christ is there, and He has a plan for each one of us,” he added.

The Mass for Laborers, held in the afternoon and conducted in Spanish, was sponsored by Catholic Charities of New York. The Profession of Faith included praying for immigrants and day laborers, especially those who have died, and their families. Concelebrants included Msgr. Kevin Sullivan, executive director of archdiocesan Catholic Charities; and Father Eric Cruz, Bronx regional director of Catholic Charities.

“Thank you all for your presence here, and to all of you laborers for working hard to advance the dignity of work; all of you, all the laborer groups,” Msgr. Sullivan, in closing remarks, said in words of gratitude to Fr. Salvo. And he acknowledged the presence of Manuel Castro, commissioner of the NYC Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA).  

In the archdiocese, many of the day laborers work in Westchester County, including workers from day labor groups in Yonkers, New Rochelle, and Port Chester. There are also day laborers in the Bronx. They do work including construction, painting, and landscaping. Many come from Mexico, Central America, and South America.

One of the day-labor groups is Obreros Unidos de Yonkers (United Laborers of Yonkers); it collaborates with Catholic Charities.

The programs offered by Obreros Unidos de Yonkers include workshops and training on worker rights, workplace safety, and the basics of immigration.

Inocente Ruiz, president of Obreros Unidos de Yonkers, told The Good Newsroom after Mass that he was grateful for the gathering because it honored day laborers and those who died during or after their journey from their native lands. 

“This is a very important Mass for us; immigrants sacrifice for their families, and many have sacrificed their lives,” said Ruiz, a Mexican-born married father of four. “Catholic Charities does good work for many people; they assist immigrants in many ways. We are very thankful.”