We hear a lot about coal miners during an election year. Certain politicians crave their votes as if they numbered in the hundreds of thousands. And over a hundred years ago, they did. Many died from black lung; others in dreadful mining accidents. A decade ago, there were almost 90,000, but now just over 45,000 as we move to other forms of energy.
Mining is still a dangerous occupation, but a little known government employee made it less so. Christopher Marks, who worked in a coal mine, although his father was a university professor, went on to become an engineer and developed a design to make the roofs of underground mines safer, so they would not collapse, burying miners in certain death.
He’s part of the so-called administrative state that Project 2025 wants to eliminate. After all, who cares if coal miners died from collapsing roofs or any other reason? Big bosses always looked on them as expendable. Chris Marks did not. Saving lives was his goal as it is for many quiet civil servants who work without recognition.
Prayer for the Day
Often, in spite of how we think we should act, we fail miserably,
Seeking satisfaction in feeding the poor rather than ending poverty;
We read about workplace tragedies and shake our heads
Rather than challenging the status quo.
Create in us a new heart so we make lives safe for all,
As we take on the power of wealth and politics.
In the name of the One who acted against injustice,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
The attitude used to be that mining was just hazardous and not much to do about it. Chris had to convince people that no -- this is an engineering problem, and we can solve it.
George Gardner, Pittsburgh Office of Mine Health and Safety
Fifty years ago, underground coal mining was the most hazardous job in the United States, and roof falls killed more miners than all other causes put together—nearly 100 miners per year.
Gregory Rumbaugh, U.S. Labor Department
O Lord, who may abide in your tent? Who may walk on your holy hill?
Those who walk blamelessly, do what is right, and speak the truth from their hearts.
Psalm 15: 1-2
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