Promoting a spirituality of work

Promoting values of human work

Claim

This Christian spirituality of work should be a heritage shared by all. Especially in the modern age, the spirituality of work should show the maturity called for by the tensions and restlessness of mind and heart. "Far from thinking that works produced by man's own talent and energy are in opposition to God's power, and that the rational creature exists as a kind of rival to the Creator, Christians are convinced that the triumphs of the human race are a sign of God's greatness and the flowering of his own mysterious design. For the greater man's power becomes, the farther his individual and community responsibility extends.... People are not deterred by the Christian message from building up the world, or impelled to neglect the welfare of their fellows. They are, rather, more stringently bound to do these very things". (Papal Encyclical, Laborem Exercens, 14 September 1981).

Counter-claim

Promoting a spirituality of work is an unnecessary distraction in today's fast-paced, results-driven world. Work should be about productivity and efficiency, not spiritual contemplation. Focusing on spirituality diverts attention from essential skills and performance metrics that drive success. In a competitive landscape, employees need practical tools and strategies, not abstract ideals. Prioritizing spirituality in the workplace undermines the fundamental purpose of work: to achieve tangible outcomes and economic growth. Let's keep spirituality out of the workplace.