Daily Reflection Memorial of Saint Charles Borromeo, Bishop

I saw Jesus’ words come to life in the work of Dorothy Day. May 1, 2023, was the ninetieth anniversary of The Catholic Worker. Staff members, volunteers, and friends gathered that evening to celebrate at St. Joseph House and Mary House in lower Manhattan. This has been the center for liturgies, lectures and communal meals for decades.

On the way to the celebration I wondered if I would see any dignitaries, perhaps prelates, politicians, or celebrities. Many people would want to come out in support of such a good work that has spanned nine decades, I thought. Coincidentally, just the week before, the Staten Island Ferry had commissioned a new ferry boat, named “The Dorothy Day.”

When I arrived the dining room was filled already with celebrants. There were some rather well-dressed men and woman, and some who were not so well-dressed. I saw volunteers who support this ministry and college students who contribute to the work. But I saw none of the “dignitaries” who I had imagined might be there. When I mentioned this to my friend, Jim Reagan, an associate editor of The Catholic Worker newspaper, he smiled and said proudly, “These are our dignitaries.” I heard the voice of Dorothy Day in his. And I could see the hope of Jesus Christ celebrated that day.