During 8th – 12th October we are celebrating Oscar Romero week. Blessed Oscar Romero was a catholic priest and later a bishop who stood up for the oppressed poor in El Salvador and spoke out against the unjust government of his day who actively persecuted the people - using weekly broadcasts to criticise them and to preach Jesus’ Good News of human rights and freedom for all.
Romero was threatened constantly and eventually assassinated by the regime, shot whilst saying Mass. He is recognised as one of many modern martyrs of faith and a witness to the good news of the gospel. Pope Francis will canonise Oscar Romero (ie officially proclaim him as a saint) on Sunday 14th October in Rome. During the week students will be learning about the life and liturgy of Blessed Oscar Romero and learning about life in El Salvador today including learning some Spanish. On Thursday students will be welcoming the First Secretary of the El Salvadorian Embassy in London who joins us for Mass and will give a talk to Sixth Form students. The week will conclude with a ‘Wear it bright’ non-uniform day in aid of CAFOD
Thank you to Mr White, Mr Hunka, Mr Noakes and the RE Department for organising the week of activities.
A guiding light
Lord Jesus, We give thanks for the life of Blessed Oscar Romero who spread your message and struggled against injustice in El Salvador.
Like you, he was a shepherd, a pastor, a brother; Like you, he was taken from us; Like you, he remains in our hearts.
Spirit of hope, work within us, just as you worked in Blessed Oscar Romero, so that we too may work for justice and spread the Good News, by living out the Gospel, in solidarity with those living in poverty.
Amen.