JOSEPH W. TKACH
PASTOR GENERAL

January 1988

Dear Friend:

Thank you for your question concerning servile work on the Sabbath.

The word "servile" is specifically mentioned in connection with the annual Holy Days, with the exception of the Day of Atonement. Servile work is that work done by an individual to gain his livelihood. God commands us not to work in our regular occupations on His annual Holy Days.

However, since all the annual Holy Days except the Day of Atonement, which is a day of fasting, are "feast" days, food may be prepared on them. Thus, God inspired the word "servile" to be mentioned in connection with these Holy Days so we know that, even though food may be prepared on them, we must not engage in any work for gain.

The other Holy Day on which we are not to labor is the weekly Sabbath. Most heavy cooking for Sabbath meals should be done prior to the Sabbath. Therefore, the word "work" used in connection with the weekly Sabbath does not need to be qualified by the term "servile."

Whenever we may assist you further with your study of the Bible or in Christian living, we hope you let us know. It is our pleasure to serve you.

PERSONAL CORRESPONDENCE DEPARTMENT