Birthday of Dorothy Day (1897-1980)
November 8

Activist for peace, economic justice, and workers' rights; and co-founder, with Peter Maurin, of the Catholic Worker Movement. Day’s life -- devoted to serving Jesus in the poor -- inspires us to value and practice works of mercy.

Expressing her commitment to gospel living, Dorothy Day wrote, "If we all carry a little of the burden in the suffering of the world, then some will not have to endure so heavy an affliction. It evens out." She embraced voluntary poverty and relied on Divine Providence in offering hospitality to the marginalized. Active in support of conscientious objectors and seeing herself as "on pilgrimage," she willingly submitted to being jailed for her demonstrations against war and nuclear proliferation.

"The Catholic Worker" newspaper, which Day established in partnership with Peter Maurin, still sells for one cent a copy and fosters a spirit of active nonviolence and commitment to justice. Dorothy remarked that it was sent out in the hope that it would bring light to anyone reading it.

When Dorothy visited Mother Teresa in India, she commented on the crucifix which each Missionary of Charity wears on the sari habit. In response, Mother Teresa inquired of Dorothy whether she'd be willing to wear one. When Dorothy said yes, Mother Teresa pinned a crucifix to Dorothy's cotton dress, saying, "You are now a spiritual Missionary of Charity. You are one of us."

Dorothy Day is featured as one of our website’s Gift People. For more extensive information about her life, visit the Dorothy Day Library at the Catholic Worker website.

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