Tuesday, March 24, 2026

Tuesday's Community Prayer honors St. Oscar Romero.

Today's prayer is led by Jade Spears, Director of Mission Integration.

Transcript

Take a moment to quiet yourselves in preparation for community prayer.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

During Lent, we try to grow closer to God by praying, giving alms, and fasting. One person who shows us what it means to truly follow Jesus is St. Oscar Romero. St. Oscar Romero was an archbishop in San Salvador, El Salvador. At first, he was known for being quiet and careful. But when he saw poor people being treated unfairly and even killed by those in power, he realized he couldn’t stay silent.

Instead of protecting his own safety, St. Oscar Romero spoke out during his homilies on the radio, telling soldiers and leaders to stop hurting innocent people. He reminded everyone that every person is loved by God and deserves dignity. In 1980, while celebrating Mass, St. Oscar Romero was assassinated because he defended the poor and challenged injustice. Today the Church honors him as a martyr and Saint.

Lent invites us to ask a hard question: Am I brave enough to live like Jesus, even when it’s uncomfortable?

St. Oscar Romero followed Jesus in three important ways: He listened to people who were suffering, he spoke the truth, and he trusted God more than his fears. He knew following Jesus could cost him everything, but he believed God was with him. St. Oscar Romero didn’t ignore the struggles of the poor. He spent time with them and heard their stories. Even when it was dangerous, Romero defended what was right.

God of justice, You gave Saint Oscar Romero the courage to defend the poor and speak the truth. Help us this Lent to notice people who are hurting, to stand up for what is right, and to follow Jesus with brave hearts. Amen. Saints of God, pray for us. St. Joseph, pray for us.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.