St. Óscar Romero's Legacy Lives On: Recent Pilgrimage Honors Martyr of Justice
St. Óscar Romero, a champion of liberation theology and critic of social injustice, was assassinated on March 24, 1980, while celebrating Mass in San Salvador. His legacy continues to inspire efforts for justice and human dignity, as seen in a recent ecumenical pilgrimage. Cristosal, an Episcopal-affiliated nonprofit, has long assisted internally displaced people and provided legal services, but faces challenges due to U.S. foreign aid cuts.
Romero's assassination during Mass at the Hospital of the Divine Providence sparked global outrage. Six days later, at least 31 people were killed in a stampede during his funeral. Today, his teachings remain relevant amid global humanitarian crises. Cristosal, founded to honor Romero's legacy, hosts pilgrimages like the recent four-day event. Participants visited museums, faith-based communities, and met with Salvadorans who knew Romero. The pilgrimage concluded with an ecumenical Mass led by Bishop Juan David Alvarado at Romero's tomb in the Catholic Cathedral of San Salvador.
Cristosal's work, however, has been impacted by U.S. foreign aid cuts. The organization's humanitarian assistance program was forced to close, affecting 1,600 internally displaced people. Meanwhile, Fespad, another aid organization, reduced staff and ceased operations due to Trump administration restrictions on foreign aid.
Romero's assassination in 1980 marked a tragic moment in El Salvador's history. Today, his legacy lives on through organizations like Cristosal, which continue to advocate for the poor and oppressed. Despite challenges posed by U.S. foreign aid cuts, Romero's teachings remain a beacon of hope and inspiration for those fighting for justice and human dignity.
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