Oscar Romero was a Salvadoran Roman Catholic bishop and the fourth Archbishop of San Salvador. He was known for his strong stance against social injustice and violence. Here are some of his most powerful quotes.
1. "We must not seek the child Jesus in the pretty figures of our Christmas cribs. We must seek him among the undernourished children who have gone to bed at night with nothing to eat."
These words remind us that Christmas is not just about pretty decorations and gifts, but it is a time to reflect on the suffering of those who are less fortunate than us. Romero's message is clear: we must not forget those who are hungry and in need.
2. "The ones who have a voice must speak for those who are voiceless."
These words are a reminder that we all have a responsibility to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. It is our duty to stand up for the oppressed and marginalized in our society.
3. "We have never preached violence, except the violence of love, which left Christ nailed to a cross, the violence that we must each do to ourselves to overcome our selfishness and such cruel inequalities among us."
These words remind us that love is a powerful force that can overcome even the most difficult challenges. Romero believed that by practicing the violence of love, we can overcome the selfishness and inequality that exists in our world.
4. "A church that does not provoke crisis, a gospel that does not disturb, a word of God that does not touch the concrete sin of the society in which it is being proclaimed - what kind of gospel is that?"
These words challenge us to think about the role of the church in society. Romero believed that the church should not shy away from speaking out against social injustice and should actively work to provoke change.
5. "The church, by its very nature, is committed to the defense of the oppressed and those who suffer injustice."
These words remind us that the church has a responsibility to stand up for the oppressed and those who suffer injustice. Romero believed that this was not just a moral duty, but it was inherent in the nature of the church itself.
6. "We are workers, not master builders; ministers, not messiahs. We are prophets of a future not our own."
These words remind us that we are all part of a larger movement towards a better future. Romero believed that we should not see ourselves as messiahs or master builders, but rather as humble workers who are part of something much bigger than ourselves.
7. "Peace is not the product of terror or fear. Peace is not the silence of cemeteries. Peace is not the silent result of violent repression. Peace is the generous, tranquil contribution of all to the good of all."
These words remind us that peace cannot be achieved through violence or fear. Romero believed that true peace can only be achieved through the generous and tranquil contribution of all to the good of all.
8. "The church is not a museum of saints, but a hospital for sinners."
These words remind us that the church is not a place for perfect people, but rather a place for imperfect people who are seeking redemption and forgiveness. Romero believed that the church should be a place where everyone is welcome, regardless of their past mistakes or failures.
9. "Let us not tire of preaching love; it is the force that will overcome the world."
These words remind us that love is the most powerful force in the universe. Romero believed that by preaching love, we can overcome hatred, violence, and injustice.
10. "Aspire not to have more, but to be more."
These words remind us that true happiness and fulfillment come from within, not from material possessions. Romero believed that we should aspire to be better people, rather than simply accumulating more things.