Living Catholicism: Household Chores and the Spiritual Value of Work

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October 27, 2004

Household Chores and the Spiritual Value of Work

There isn't a lot out there on the importance of household chores from a spiritual angle. We all have heard or read about it being good for our children to have chores in order to earn an allowance, that it teaches kids the value of honest work. As a former kid, I am not trying to say that this is a bad thing, rather I would like to show that work, even around the house, has spiritual value.

Why do we work? Most would reply to earn a living. Yet as Catholics we should question and meditate on the spiritual value of our work. How does work teach us to be better followers of Christ? Stefan Cardinal Wyszynski, the great mentor of Pope John Paul II, once wrote:

What external work does for our interior life is shown in the fact that this work by the sweat of our brow lays bare the image of our soul and unveils its real expression...A perfect method of examining our conscience can be to scrutinize the manner in which we do our duty at work. - All You Who Labor, pg. 113

This is timeless advice. How often do we try to separate the way we are at work from the way we are with our family? Yet our Catholic faith should permeate all aspects of our life. Cardinal Wyszynski's words ring true and are worthy of our attention. Applying this to our own lives is hard enough, but how do we teach our children to do likewise?
1) Practice what we preach - If we wish our children to learn about themselves by examining their attitude toward work, we must set the example. We should attempt to be positive about our daily work and speak to our children about the good things we experience each day.
2) Thank God for the ability to work - As in every aspect of the spiritual life, thankfulness is a must. It is vital that we teach our children that work, though burdensome at times, is a gift and that many people in the world can't work.
3) A sense of duty and unity as a family - it is good for children to see that their work helps the family, that it makes the home more enjoyable to live in. Children should consider the "common good" of the domestic church over their own wants. This will help to develop true generosity in your kids.
4) Affirmation for a job well done - it is important to let your kids know that you are proud of their hard work. A simple statement of praise can often do more than any amount of money. Learn to recognize your children's efforts.
5) Involvement - DO NOT make your kids your personal servants. Get "in the trenches" with them. Let them see you working hard. It will serve as encouragement and motivation for them.
6) Appreciation for an orderly home - weekly chores instill in your children the value of organzation. Being orderly and organized will help your children in many ways throughout their lives.
7) Prayer and work - teach your children to offer up simple prayers and sacrifices while they work. It is said that St. Therese of Lisieux offered up each little chore she did as an act of love for God. It really isn't that difficult if you think about it, and what a wonderful practice to teach your children.

These simple steps can make household chores an important part of your children's formation. Will it always be fun? Will it always be welcomed by your kids? Most likely no, but remain consistent, let your kids know that working as a family is important and a key part of their spiritual growth. Talk to your children about it, help them to understand why it is important. It can make all the difference.

May the Holy Family continue to bless and guide you and your family. Amen.

Posted by HolyFamily at October 27, 2004 12:34 AM