Q. A church-related unemployment support group in Massachusetts offers participants tips on writing resumes, developing new contact and making ends meet. The group also prays, in an effort to “refine and strengthen their faith along the way.” How important do you see faith as a tool for motivation to seek employment? How and do you teach members of your flock to use prayer or the Bible as a motivator when going out into the job pool?
Rabbi Simcha Backman: I believe faith can and should serve as a strong motivational force for those seeking employment. Religious teachings stress the importance of leading a wholesome life, a key ingredient of which is having a job and being a productive member of society. Jewish teachings frequently laud the positive effects, both physical and spiritual, of employment and extol the benefits of an honest day’s work.
Faith can be a real source of strength in challenging times, and searching for work in today’s climate is no easy task. Our country — and indeed the entire world — is experiencing a severe economic contraction, resulting in millions of lost jobs. Month after month of gloomy statistics announce additional layoffs. These facts make it very difficult to find work and can lead some among us to despair. I feel that it is a sacred obligation of religious organizations and clergy members to provide encouragement for those who find themselves struggling. Prayer and communication with God — who is the source of all sustenance — should become a central part of this support process.
