Prayers for Labor Day

This Labor Day Weekend is again a time to honor the workers who have made America all that it is especially all those who work with and for children.

Marian Wright Edelman, Founder and President Emerita, Children's Defense Fund (CDF)

The teachers and school administrators who are beginning a new school year right now are always on the front lines, advocating for and alongside our children, sometimes under very difficult circumstances. As they return to their classrooms they are not alone.

Parents, and grandparents, and all those who care for children and strive to be good role models for them are child advocates. Doctors, social workers, and others who work with and serve children are child advocates. Librarians and coaches are child advocates. They are all joined by the thousands of people, with or without children of their own, who spend their time and talent fighting for just policies for children and families and those who are vulnerable. "A Child Advocate's Beatitudes," inspired by Clarence Jordan's Sermon on the Mount, is a prayer for all.

Blessed are the poor in spirit-who do not measure themselves by money or worldly power but who ask God for what they need and are not mired in pride for theirs is the kingdom of God.