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My daughter asked me about “unnecessary servile” work on Sunday’s and what does this entail? My son-in-law also asked a great question about sedevacanists. So, I thought I’d begin with Sunday and servile work or rather unnecessary servile work first and then roll into the issues with Sedevacanists.
In the creation story, Moses states, "God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it He rested from all His work" (Genesis 2:3). Since we are created in God's image, we are called to follow His example: just as God rested on the seventh day, we too should rest after six days of work. This rest is essential for humans. After six days of labor, just as we need sleep to restore our strength after a day of activity, we also need a more extended period of rest to rejuvenate.
Interestingly, it was during the French Revolution, the traditional seven-day week was replaced with a ten-day week, but it quickly became apparent that the extra three days was a bit much, and the seven-day cycle was restored. More importantly, if you recall the number seven is tied to the natural order. God, created the celestial bodies to mark time for signs, seasons, days, and years (Genesis 1:14), designed the moon's phases, which change roughly every seven days, to guide humanity in dividing time into seven-day periods, with one day set aside for rest.
Looking back at the second century and we read from Bishop Theophilus of Antioch, around 150 A.D., noted that the observance of a seventh day of rest was a widespread custom. As Christians, we observe Sunday as a day of rest and worship, while others follow different traditions: Jews honor Saturday, Muslims observe Friday.
The importance if you will of resting every seventh day symbolizes the eternal rest awaiting us in Heaven (Hebrews 4:9). By dedicating this day to the Lord, we renew our hope and anticipation for the everlasting joy of Heaven. Even the tradition of wearing our best clothes on this day serves as a reminder of the heavenly happiness we aspire to one day experience. Please re-read that ; the tradition of wearing our best clothes…that would be nice to see as well…sorry I’ve digressed.
As Catholics, Christians, we understand that Sunday is a celebration of the Holy Trinity. On the first day of the week, God the Father began the work of creation, God the Son rose from the dead, and God the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles. But the Apostles were Jews and earlier it was noted that Jews celebrate the Sabbath on Saturday NOT Sunday. So why is it now Sunday? Great question, the Apostles were given the authority to move the day of rest from Saturday to Sunday because the commandment emphasized the observance of a specific day each week, rather than the Sabbath itself. Therefore this change from Saturday to Sunday was/is fitting, as the Old Law was/is a precursor to the New.
Sunday is also called the Lord's Day because it is meant to be dedicated to His service, especially in remembrance of His resurrection. Again, going back to the 2nd Century we read from St. Justin Martyr, around 139 A.D., who was the first to use the term "Sunday." The name reflects the day on which Christ, like the rising sun, rose from the grave in the glory of His resurrected humanity. It is also the day when God created light, the Holy Spirit descended in tongues of fire, and we are spiritually enlightened.
You may already know this, the Emperor Constantine the Great established Sunday as a day of rest throughout the Roman Empire, and Charlemagne reinforced this observance by imposing fines on those who violated it.
Bottom line, the Catholic Church defines servile work as tasks involving strenuous physical effort, typically performed by servants, laborers, and artisans—those engaged in manual or subordinate work. The term comes from the idea of "service." Buying, selling, and commercial activities are also included in this. However, in some places, local customs allow certain exceptions. Despite this flexibility, commercial activities should not occur during hours set aside for worship. Just as God rested on the seventh day, we are called to do the same. On Easter Sunday, Christ left His grave clothes behind and rose victorious, symbolizing how we too should set aside worldly concerns and elevate our hearts to God through prayer. Rest is essential, as physical exhaustion can hinder meaningful prayer.
Lets take this to the next level and really dive into what is and what is not acceptable and leave some room for you to consider if what you are or are not doing is against the teaching of the Magisterium.
Public Worship and the Mass
The Mass is the highest form of Christian worship and is usually accompanied by a sermon. Early Christians gathered on Sundays to hear Mass and a short exhortation after the Gospel, much like today. Sunday rest gives us time to focus on spiritual matters and receive the Sacraments. The Church encourages Holy Communion and private devotions on Sundays, often accompanied by afternoon services and open churches for prayer. In earlier times, people would read spiritual books or the lives of saints on Sundays. Many of Christ's miracles, such as healing the man with the withered hand (Matthew 12:10) or the blind man (John 9), occurred on the Sabbath, showing His intention to encourage good works on holy days.
What IS Permissible Work on Sundays
Certain kinds of work are allowed on Sundays and holy days:
The Spirit of Sunday Observance
Sins Against the Third Commandment-If you’re wondering why this is here, go back and read the Third Commandment again:
Motivations for Honoring Sunday
What about “laws?” Are there any laws that the Church has in place and why? What can these possibly do for me and my spiritual wellbeing? Let’s consider the following and again, this is being presented so you have a better awareness of what it is that we believe to be true. If these are the first time you are hearing about these Canons, please take some time and get with your pastor and/or deacon and ask them to provide a class or something similar so the laity will know and understand their responsibilities.
The Sanctification of Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation
As we read and understand in Canon 1246 §1, Sunday is the foremost holy day of obligation in the universal Church, commemorating the Resurrection of Christ and the paschal mystery. It is the foundation of Christian life and worship, set apart for public participation in the Mass and rest from servile labor.
On Sundays and holy days of obligation (Can. 1247), Catholics are obliged to participate in the Eucharistic celebration. This obligation can also be fulfilled by attending Mass on the evening of the preceding day (Can. 1248 §1). The faithful are further called to avoid work or activities that interfere with worship, the joy of the day, or proper rest.
This aligns with the spiritual principles outlined above that stated: Sunday is a time to set aside earthly concerns, devote ourselves to prayer, participate in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, and embrace the peace of God.
Rest and Recreation in Accordance with the Lord’s Day
Canon 1247 reinforces the importance of dedicating Sunday not only to worship but also to proper relaxation of mind and body. Physical rest is seen as necessary for spiritual renewal, enabling deeper participation in prayer and devotion.
Unnecessary servile work, as previously discussed, detracts from the sanctity of the Lord’s Day. Only work deemed necessary—such as acts of mercy, duties essential for life, or public services—is permitted. This perspective aligns with Christ's teaching that “the Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath” (Mark 2:27), emphasizing the balance between worship and human needs.
Encouraging Penitential Practices: The Role of Friday Observance
In addition to Sunday, the Church designates Fridays throughout the year as penitential days (Can. 1250). These days call Christians to reflect on the Passion of Christ and express contrition for sin. Canon 1251 requires abstinence from meat or another form of penance, unless a solemnity falls on a Friday. During Lent, fasting and abstinence are obligatory on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, fostering a communal spirit of penance.
While these practices may not seem as universally emphasized today, the faithful are strongly encouraged to integrate them into their lives as an ongoing sign of devotion. Abstinence on Fridays is an opportunity to step away from worldly indulgences and unite oneself with Christ's sacrifice. Canon 1253 allows local bishops to adapt or substitute penitential practices, emphasizing works of charity or piety as alternatives.
Practical Applications for Modern Christians
Sunday Worship and Rest:
The observance of Sunday and Friday practices is not merely a matter of obligation but an invitation to live the faith more fully. By dedicating Sunday to worship, rest, and renewal, and embracing Friday as a day of penitence, Catholics draw closer to God and the mystery of salvation.
As emphasized by the Church, these practices provide opportunities for spiritual growth, gratitude, and alignment with God's will, serving as reminders of His love and our ultimate goal: eternal communion with Him.
The observance of Sundays, holy days, and penitential practices like the Friday fast provides a sacred rhythm that guides the lives of the faithful toward greater communion with God. These practices are not mere rules or obligations; they are profound opportunities for renewal, reflection, and growth in holiness.
Sunday, as the primordial day of worship, anchors us in the joy of the Resurrection, reminding us weekly of the victory of Christ over sin and death. It calls us to set aside earthly concerns and focus on worship, community, and rest. Similarly, holy days of obligation highlight key moments in the story of salvation and invite us to celebrate the mysteries of Christ and the saints who inspire us to live faithfully.
Friday, as a weekly penitential day, offers a counterbalance—a time to remember Christ’s Passion and cultivate humility, gratitude, and repentance. Through fasting, abstinence, or acts of charity, we align ourselves with the sacrificial love of Christ, fostering deeper spiritual discipline.
Together, these practices teach us to sanctify time, living each week with intention and purpose. By setting apart these sacred days, we are reminded that our ultimate purpose is not found in worldly pursuits but in drawing closer to God and participating in His divine life.
As we embrace these traditions, we unite with the universal Church in worship, penance, and renewal, strengthening our bond as members of the Body of Christ. Let us approach each Sunday and Friday with renewed commitment, seeing them not as burdens but as blessings—a framework that helps us journey faithfully toward eternal life.
God Bless
Deacon Wally was born and raised in Michigan. In 1987 he joined the United States Marine Corps. Originally, he was not planning on making a career with the Corps, however as time moved on, Calabrese spent 20 years on active duty and retired in 2007 as a Gunnery Sergeant. During his time in the Corps and while stationed overseas in Okinawa Japan, he met his bride, Amy. They married on April 11, 1992, and were blessed with two daughters, Lori (Thomas) and Leeza (Kevin). Both daughters are married and have children. Upon retirement from the Marine Corps, Calabrese began working for the local community college as the campus chair. Calabrese spent 13 years with the college and decided to leave full-time work to pursue writing and speaking extensively. Deacon Wally was ordained to the diaconate June 26, 2010. He was in the second class for the Diocese of Raleigh. Upon ordination, Calabrese was assigned to Annunciation Parish in Havelock, NC. Calabrese authored The Apostles and Me! Deacon Wally also has authored booklets titled, Confirmed and Ready! and Living a Catholic and Moral Life. Calabrese has a passion for spreading the great love of Christ and the Catholic Faith. Deacon Wally earned his bachelor's degree from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, and he holds a master's degree in Pastoral Theology from St. Joseph’s College, Standish, ME. For more information on Deacon Wally Calabrese please visit his website: www.deaconwallycalabrese.com
