Who Does the Work I Never Notice?

A reflection for the feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica.

When I enter a church, I notice the altar, the candles, the flowers. I am thankful for a beautiful place to pray. I do not always think about who was there before me, making sure everything was ready.

Someone cleaned the sanctuary. Someone washed and ironed the linens used at Mass. A person noticed something broken and arranged to repair it. Someone put out the vessels, the bread, and the wine before Mass. After I leave, they will still be putting things away.

On the feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica, I find myself thinking about those people in my own parish. Their work is easy to overlook when it is done well. I notice when something is not as expected more readily than I notice all the times someone has kept it all in order.

I understand something of this from caring for a home. With three children, I know that things do not stay clean or put themselves away. But I walk into church and receive the benefit of someone else’s efforts without giving it much thought.

There is love in preparing a place where other people can pray. The person washing linens doesn’t know who will come to Mass carrying grief or needing courage. The person making a repair may simply want to do their little part. Their care helps the parish gather for worship, week after week.

And I don’t need to leave all the work to them. Praising quiet service can be accompanied by an offer to help.

I could start by finding out who does these things. I could thank someone for a specific task instead of vaguely thanking “all our volunteers.” I could ask what help is needed and be willing to learn a job that nobody will see me doing.

I love entering a church that has been cared for. The feast of the Lateran Basilica gives me a reason to remember the hands that helped prepare it.

Lord Jesus, thank you for those who care for our churches and prepare for Mass. Bless their work, especially when it goes unnoticed. Help me recognize their care, express my gratitude, and willingly share the tasks that need doing. Teach me to serve you faithfully without needing attention for it. Amen.