St. Óscar Romero
Archbishop and Martyr of El Salvador
Feast Day: March 24
Biography
St. Óscar Arnulfo Romero (1917–1980) was the Archbishop of San Salvador during the years leading up to El Salvador's civil war. Initially considered a safe, conservative appointment, he was transformed by the murder of his friend Fr. Rutilio Grande and the systematic violence against his people. He became the most prominent voice in Latin America defending the poor and denouncing the injustice, torture, and murder committed by government forces and death squads. His weekly radio homilies were heard by the entire nation. On March 24, 1980, he was shot and killed by an assassin while celebrating Mass in the chapel of a cancer hospital. His last homily had included the words: 'In the name of God, in the name of this suffering people, I ask you, I beg you, I order you: stop the repression!' He was canonized by Pope Francis in 2018.
Patronages
Symbols
Prayer
St. Óscar Romero, you gave your life speaking truth in the face of violence. Help me to be a voice for those who have no voice. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Asking for Intercession
Catholics ask saints to pray with us and for us, as we ask friends on earth. St. Óscar Romero, who lives in God's presence, intercedes before His throne. Speak from your heart: “St. Óscar Romero, please pray for me…” You may also pray the prayer above or include this intention in your Rosary.