From September 15 to October 15, the Diocese of Newark joins in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, honoring the histories, cultures, and contributions of people whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
This month is a time to give thanks for the richness and diversity that Hispanic/Latino communities bring to our shared life – from music and food to faith and leadership. Follow along on Facebook, Instagram, and in The VOICE Online as we share stories exploring the intersection of Episcopal and Hispanic/Latino traditions.
As we celebrate, we also commit to learning more about the struggles and stories that continue to shape our nation.
About Hispanic Heritage Month: Established as Hispanic Heritage Week by President Lyndon Johnson in 1968 and expanded to a full month by President Ronald Reagan in 1988, this national observance begins mid-September to coincide with the independence days of several Latin American countries.
Óscar Romero
Archbishop and Martyr – El Salvador
Born in 1917, Óscar Romero rose from humble beginnings in El Salvador to become Archbishop of San Salvador. After the 1977 assassination of his friend, Jesuit priest Rutilio Grande, Romero became a bold voice for justice, speaking out against poverty, violence, and government oppression, and urging soldiers to obey God’s law rather than unjust orders. On March 24, 1980, he was martyred while celebrating Mass.
The Episcopal Church commemorates Romero on March 24, the anniversary of his martyrdom, together with the Martyrs of El Salvador. We honor Romero as a spiritual model for his advocacy of social justice and human rights. The Anglican Communion also recognizes him among the ten 20th-century martyrs whose statues stand above the Great West Door of Westminster Abbey.
Learn more: westminster-abbey.org/abbey-commemorations/commemorations/st-oscar-romero
Almighty God, you called your servant Óscar Romero to be a voice for the voiceless poor, and to give his life as a seed of freedom and a sign of hope: Grant that we, inspired by his sacrifice and the example of the martyrs of El Salvador, may without fear or favor witness to your Word who abides, your Word who is Life, even Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be praise and glory now and for ever. Amen.
