The May 1st mass, also known as the “Messe du Travail”, took place at Sainte-Thérèse Church, Curepipe, at 9:00 am this Wednesday. The theme of the mass was “Anou dibout ansam dan lesperans pou enn pei meyer”, a call for unity and hope for a better country.
During the Labor Mass, the Bishop of Port-Louis also addressed the impact of parental labor on children. While children appreciate that their parents’ work offers them a decent life, it often comes with sacrifice. Some parents have to go abroad to work, leaving their children behind.
Mgr Durhône then raised the issue of migration, asking whether the exodus of young people posed a threat to the workforce. According to Mgr Durhône, it is essential to find ways of retaining talent and giving young people reasons to stay or return to Mauritius after their studies.
The Bishop of Port-Louis stressed the importance of giving thanks to God for work and for all those who contribute to society. He also called for recognition of foreign workers and welcomed the opportunities given to women entrepreneurs, who now play an essential role in the development of Mauritius.
In his homily, Mgr Durhône argued that work is a source of dignity and value for every human being, and must be treated with respect and justice.
Finally, Mgr Durhône warned against social problems such as discrimination, communalism and the impact of drugs, which can have harmful effects on the world of work and on society as a whole. He concluded by calling for greater solidarity and a renewed commitment to creating a more just and inclusive world of work, where every worker can contribute to the development of Mauritius in a spirit of unity and mutual respect.
