THE first of May is significant for two reasons: it is both a secular and a religious holiday. The secular observation is the annual celebration of Labor Day, which is celebrated in many countries of the world. The religious significance is that it is the feast of St. Joseph the Worker.

As a secular holiday, it was the result of the labor union movement to celebrate the economic and social significance of workers. Most countries celebrate Labor Day on May 1, and it is sometimes known as May Day and also as International Workers' Day. Some countries, however, such as the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada, celebrate it on the first Monday of September. The celebration of Labor Day originated with the eight-hour work day movement.