# Labor Day Prayer Inspired by Blessed Frédéric Ozanam
*2022-10-07*

> Bill Young reflects on the feast of Blessed Frédéric Ozanam and offers a Labor Day prayer that calls us to turn words into concrete service for the poor.

## Remembering Blessed Frédéric Ozanam

Today, September 7, we celebrate the feast of Blessed Frédéric Ozanam. Born in early‑19th‑century Paris, Ozanam’s father was a physician who hoped his son would become a lawyer. While studying law, Ozanam encountered professors who were sharply critical of the Catholic Church. In response, he organized a discussion group that brought together Catholics, atheists, and others to debate faith and reason.

One of the atheists challenged him, saying, “You speak well, Frédéric, but where are your actions?” That question struck a chord. Ozanam realized that eloquent speech without concrete service was incomplete.

## From Words to Action

Motivated to live out his faith, Ozanam co‑founded the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, a lay organization that still serves the poor worldwide. Yet he did not stop there. He also launched a magazine, *L’Avenir* (meaning “The Future”), to advocate for justice for the marginalized. Ozanam’s life shows how a layperson can combine intellectual engagement with practical charity.

## A Labor Day Prayer

Let us pray this Labor Day, following Ozanam’s example:

“God, our Creator, it is your will that man accepts the duty of work. May the work we begin bring growth to this life and help to extend the Kingdom of Christ. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.”

May we, like Ozanam, move beyond talk and take concrete steps to aid the poor and promote justice.

## Intercession of Blessed Frédéric

We ask Blessed Frédéric Ozanam to intercede for us, that we might be inspired to serve the needy with both heart and hands.

*Words become true discipleship when they are accompanied by concrete action for the poor.*