Oscar Romero, the martyred Archbishop of San Salvador, is remembered for several powerful and prophetic statements that encapsulated his commitment to justice, human rights, and the poor. While he delivered many impactful messages, two quotes stand out as particularly famous and central to his legacy.
His profound vision for a just society is captured in his words about peace:
"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."
This quote highlights Romero's belief that true peace is not merely the absence of conflict enforced by violence, but rather an active, collective effort towards the common good, requiring participation and justice from everyone.
Romero's Most Iconic Plea
Perhaps his single most famous and impactful statement, delivered the day before his assassination on March 24, 1980, was his direct appeal to the Salvadoran military. In a powerful homily broadcast nationally, he implored soldiers to stop the violence against their own people:
"I implore you, I beg you, I order you: stop the repression!"
(Spanish: "Les ruego, les suplico, les ordeno: ¡cese la represión!")
This courageous command directly challenged the military junta and cemented his status as a voice for the voiceless, ultimately leading to his martyrdom.
Key Famous Quotes of Oscar Romero
To better understand the scope and impact of his words, here's a summary of these pivotal quotes:
| Quote Theme | Quote Text | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| On True Peace | "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." | This quote profoundly articulates Romero's understanding of peace as a dynamic state achieved through justice, participation, and generosity, rather than a superficial calm born of oppression. It reflects his theological conviction that genuine peace aligns with God's will for humanity and creation. |
| On Ending Repression | "I implore you, I beg you, I order you: stop the repression!" | Delivered on March 23, 1980, this courageous and direct appeal to the Salvadoran military remains his most widely recognized and significant quote. It was a direct challenge to the state-sponsored violence and human rights abuses prevalent in El Salvador, signifying his unwavering solidarity with the victims of the conflict. This sermon is widely believed to have been the direct catalyst for his assassination the following day. Learn more about his life and legacy at The Oscar Romero Trust. |
The Enduring Legacy of His Words
Oscar Romero's words continue to resonate globally, inspiring human rights advocates, social justice movements, and religious leaders. His commitment to speaking truth to power, even at the cost of his own life, transformed him into a powerful symbol of martyrdom and prophetic leadership. His canonization as a saint by the Catholic Church in 2018 further solidified the recognition of his enduring message.
His emphasis on peace rooted in justice, and his unwavering defense of the poor and oppressed, are central to understanding his enduring influence. His life and quotes serve as a timeless reminder of the moral responsibility to challenge injustice and advocate for human dignity. For further reading on his impact, consider resources from institutions dedicated to peace and justice, such as Catholic Relief Services.
