Oscar Romero and the Communion of Saints: A Biography »

Thirty years after his assassination in 1980, Oscar Romero continues to serve as one of the great Christian witnesses of our time. This richly illustrated biography tells his story, from his humble origins and early life as a relatively conservative priest and bishop, to the astonishing transformation that occurred in the last three years of his life. As Archbishop of San Salvador he became a courageous voice for the voiceless, entering a path he knew might lead to his death. This biography reveals his humanity as well as his extraordinary faith and courage. It offers a stunning portrait of the gospel challenge for our time.

Friends of God and Prophets 1

The Land of the Savior 3

Family 6

How Sad Is the Evening! 11

Seminary 12

Parish Priest 15

Sharing the Gospel 18

His Mother's Hands 20

Winds of Change 22

Medellin 25

The National Pastoral Week 28

Bishop of Santiago de Maria 32

Seeds of Conversion 35

A Pastoral Experiment 39

The Death of Rutilio Grande 42

Crossing the Threshold 46

Coming Home Again 50

The Paschal Hour 54

Aguilares 58

The Body of Christ in History 61

The Sky Has Turned Red 65

Following the Star 68

Human Rights 72

Grassroots Organizations 76

Tear Off the Veil of Shame 80

Christ Living among Us 84

Octavio, My Son 89

Puebla 93

Church in the Midst of Crisis 97

Pastoral Accompaniment 101

October Crisis 105

A New Ray of Salvation 108

The People's Project 112

Political Dimension of Faith 115

The Homily 119

The Final Weeks 123

Easter Is a Shout of Victory 127

Unless a Seed Die 131

The Funeral 135

Life Has the Last Word 138

An Enduring Legacy 142

Communion of Saints 145

The Word Remains 149

Afterword 153

Notes 155