Pope John Paul II publishes Laborem Exercens

Pope John Paul II published the encyclical Laborem Exercens to address the nature of human work. Originally scheduled for release on May 15, 1981, the publication was delayed until September 14, 1981, following the assassination attempt against the Pope in St. Peter's Square.

The document was released to commemorate the 90th anniversary of Pope Leo XIII's Rerum Novarum. In the text, the Pope places the dignity of work at the center of social issues and asserts that the human person is the true subject of labor. He argues that work allows individuals to express and improve their dignity, establishing the primacy of work over capital and material goods.

The encyclical supports the rights of workers and unions while reflecting on the spirituality of labor. John Paul II also addresses modern developments in the workforce, including automation, rising costs for energy and raw materials, environmental awareness, and the right to participate in professional life.