Saint Oscar Romero
Saint Oscar Romero, the Archbishop of San Salvador, in El Salvador stood up for people in his country being repressed by the country’s military rulers and were without basic human rights. In his actions and words, Saint Oscar demanded a peace that could only be found by ensuring people had access to basic needs and their rights upheld. He raised awareness globally about the people in his country who had been killed or “disappeared”. He is a symbol of hope in a country that has suffered poverty, injustice and violence.
Fenghuang
With the head of a peacock, body of a swan and wings of a golden cockerel, they are believed to be messengers of happiness. The fenghuang is an extremely kind creature which symbolises justice and graciousness.
Honest, Fearless, Persistent – qualities that Oscar Romero demonstrated through his work with the citizens of his country and pursuit of human rights.
We pray for those who are marginalised, that they may have a voice. We pray for those who suffer silently against the repression of others. For we are created in the image and likeness of God,
And regardless of our differences, we are entitled to basic human rights. May we follow Christ and love our neighbour as ourselves. May we implement the virtues of Oscar Romero, being honest, fearless and persistent in our everyday lives, so that we may achieve peace within our community.
For peace is generosity. It is right, and it is duty. Peace is honest, fearless and persistent. Amen.