Óscar Arnulfo Romero y Galdámez was born on August 15, 1917, in Ciudad Barrios, El Salvador. He was the second of seven children born to Santos Romero and Guadalupe de Jésus Galdámez. His father worked as a telegraph operator and taught Óscar the trade of carpentry at a young age. Growing up in a humble family, Romero learned the values of hard work, compassion, and faith.
After completing his primary education, Óscar Romero entered the seminary in San Miguel to study for the priesthood. He was ordained as a priest in 1942 and served in various parishes across El Salvador. Known for his dedication to social justice and his advocacy for the poor, Romero quickly gained a reputation as a compassionate and courageous clergyman.
In 1977, Óscar Romero was appointed as the Archbishop of San Salvador, the capital city of El Salvador. At the time, the country was facing political turmoil and social unrest, with widespread poverty and oppression affecting the majority of the population. As Archbishop, Romero took a stand against the government's human rights abuses and called for an end to the violence and injustice plaguing the country.
On March 24, 1980, while celebrating Mass at the Divina Providencia chapel in San Salvador, Archbishop Óscar Romero was assassinated by a gunman. His death sent shockwaves throughout El Salvador and the world, sparking international outrage and condemnation. Romero's tireless advocacy for the marginalized and oppressed made him a powerful voice for social change and justice.
In 1997, Pope John Paul II bestowed the title of "Servant of God" upon Óscar Romero, recognizing his commitment to serving the poor and defending human rights. In 2015, Romero was beatified by Pope Francis, a step toward his canonization as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church. Romero's legacy continues to inspire people around the world to work for peace, justice, and solidarity with the marginalized.
Óscar Romero had a close-knit family, with five brothers and two sisters who supported him in his ministry and activism. Despite facing threats and violence, Romero remained steadfast in his faith and dedication to serving the most vulnerable in society. His life and work are a testament to the power of compassion, courage, and faith in the face of adversity.
Óscar Romero's legacy as a champion of human rights and social justice lives on in the hearts of those who continue to fight for a more just and equitable world. His courage and compassion serve as an example to all who strive to make a positive difference in the lives of others.