St Oscar Romero
Reflect on the life and words of Saint Oscar Romero with our resources.
Saint Oscar Romero (centre) spoke out against poverty and injustice.
“Let us lie in wait for the virtuous man, since he annoys us and opposes our way of life. ”
These words from the book of Wisdom seem especially relevant today, on the anniversary of the martyrdom of Saint Oscar Romero. He was murdered on this day in 1980 while saying Mass as the Archbishop in El Salvador.
This remarkable man refused to stay quiet in the face of inequality, injustice and increasing violence in his country. He was a brave defender of the poorest and most vulnerable people and called on the army to stop killing people.
Even when faced with death threats he remained steadfast in his support. In his final homily, just moments before he was murdered, Romero said:
“Those who surrender to the service of the poor through love of Christ will live like the grain of wheat that dies. It only apparently dies. If it were not to die, it would remain a solitary grain. The harvest comes because of the grain that dies…”
Rooted in love, the life of Saint Oscar Romero continues to bear a harvest of goodness today. His deep commitment to the poor and passionate belief in justice continues to inspire many, including the work of CAFOD.
Lent prayer
God of justice,
give me the courage
to stand up for what I believe.
May I speak your truth,
and amplify the voices
of the vulnerable and oppressed.
Amen.
Saint Oscar Romero, pray for us
Act
Reflect further on the life and words of Saint Oscar Romero with our resources and prayers.