Meaning: The quote by Dorothy Day emphasizes the integral relationship between the apostolate of the laity and the liturgy within the context of the Catholic Church. Dorothy Day, a prominent activist and co-founder of the Catholic Worker Movement, was deeply committed to social justice and the application of Catholic social teaching in addressing the needs of the marginalized and the poor. Her words reflect the significance of the liturgy as the foundation for the active involvement of lay Catholics in the mission of the Church.

The term "apostolate" refers to the mission and work of spreading the teachings of the faith and serving others, and the laity are the non-ordained members of the Church. Day's quote underscores the idea that the active engagement of the laity in the apostolate is inseparable from the liturgy, the public worship and ritual of the Church. In other words, she is asserting that the spiritual nourishment and formation received through the liturgy are essential for the laity to effectively carry out their roles as witnesses and participants in the Church's mission.

The liturgy, which encompasses the celebration of the Eucharist, other sacraments, and various forms of communal worship, holds a central place in the life of the Catholic Church. It is within the liturgical context that the faithful encounter the living presence of Christ, receive grace through the sacraments, and are nourished by the Word of God. Through active participation in the liturgy, the laity are called to deepen their faith, cultivate a sense of communal belonging, and be sent forth to live out the Gospel in their daily lives.

Day's assertion about the relationship between the liturgy and the apostolate of the laity aligns with the teachings of the Second Vatican Council, particularly in the document "Lumen Gentium" which emphasized the call of the laity to sanctify the secular world and to be active participants in the Church's mission. The council emphasized the importance of the laity's role in the evangelizing mission of the Church, highlighting that their apostolate is rooted in their baptism and is to be carried out in various spheres of society.

The liturgy, as the source and summit of the Christian life according to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, provides the necessary spiritual nourishment, formation, and inspiration for the laity to fulfill their apostolic mission. Through active participation in the liturgy, the laity are nourished by the Word of God, strengthened by the Eucharist, and are united with the entire Body of Christ. This nourishment and union with Christ empower the laity to go forth and bear witness to the Gospel in the world, engaging in acts of charity, justice, and mercy.

In the Catholic tradition, the liturgy not only forms individuals but also shapes the community of believers. The communal celebration of the liturgy fosters a sense of unity, solidarity, and shared mission among the faithful. This communal dimension of the liturgy is crucial for mobilizing the laity to work together in addressing social concerns, advocating for justice, and promoting the dignity of every human person.

Furthermore, the liturgy serves as a constant reminder of the Church's social teachings and the call to live out the Gospel in the world. The liturgical celebrations often include prayers, readings, and rituals that emphasize the Church's commitment to the poor, the marginalized, and the promotion of peace and justice. This serves to inspire and challenge the laity to actively engage in works of charity, alleviate suffering, and strive for a more just and compassionate society.

In conclusion, Dorothy Day's quote underscores the inseparable connection between the liturgy and the apostolate of the laity within the Catholic Church. The liturgy serves as the foundation for the spiritual formation, communal unity, and mission of the laity, empowering them to live out their faith in action. This understanding aligns with the teachings of the Church, emphasizing the vital role of the laity in bringing the values of the Gospel into the world. As such, the quote by Dorothy Day serves as a poignant reminder of the profound relationship between the Church's worship and the active engagement of the laity in the world.