While Labor Day is known as the “end of summer,” the season of summer actually comes to an end on September 20th. Americans have traditionally wrapped up our summer excursion by Labor Day. The children have returned to school and many of our routine duties have begun. Of course, September is beautiful with warm days and cool nights.

This patriotic day is filled with relaxation, friends and family and/or an outdoor barbecue. Labor Day celebrates the common everyday
worker.

In the 19th century (1800’s) Labor Day was established to honor labor unions and workers across our great country. Please recall that labor unions did not become official until 1935. In the 1800’s and early 1900’s labor unions experienced some great “wins.” One such win is the 40-hour work week, company benefits, paid leave, sick leave and vacation time. Labor Day honors the common American worker who helped change the work force.

This special day of tribute to the American worker can be traced back to two Irishman: Peter J. and Matthew McGuire. The first unofficial
Labor Day was celebrated on September 5, 1882, in New York City. By June 28, 1894, Congress passed an act, officially recognizing Labor
Day on the first Monday of September for the whole country.

Additional Notes

On September 2, 2024, Mass will be celebrated at 9 a.m. (no Mass at 12:10p.m.) at St. Catherine Church in Broad Brook. Please be advised that on that day there will not be a 12:10 p.m. Mass. The Mass will be celebrated at 9 a.m.

In observance of Labor Day, the Office will be closed on Monday, September 2, 2024. Regular business will resume on Tuesday, September
3, 2024.