Oscar Romero

From the Documentary:

1. When Romero asked his peers if they agreed with his appeal (the night before he gave the homily), and one man responded, “I’m not a theological expert, but ethically yes”

2. When one interviewee said they were not afraid of death. Instead, “they shared a Christian conviction of the need to give your life to others.”

Responses:

1. Overall, this documentary was a very emotional experience. The interviews of the older women discussing their memories of the brutal killings combined with the graphic imagery made me extremely upset. While these images were difficult to see, I’m glad they were included in the documentary. They were necessary in explaining just how disgusting these mass murders were.

When Romero asked his associates if they supported and agreed with his appeal, I was surprised that the one man felt obligated to give his legal opinion. What about the law is relevant in a state of corruption? Everyone knew that the government and laws were corrupt so why did he feel the need to honor them? I can understand that he was hesitant to support Romero’s homily because he knew what would ultimately happen to the archbishop and quite possibly himself, but seriously? This reminded me of the distinction between god’s law and man’s law. The bible commands people to follow the law of man, but only if it is in union with the law of God. Colossians 2:8 (King James Version) reads, “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.”

2. My favorite interview was the woman who explained the strength of the oppressed people. Even though the revolution and war caused the deaths of over 80,000 people, this woman explained that her people were not afraid of death. She said that they “shared a Christian conviction of the need to give their lives to others.” Through this conviction, they were able to work together and ultimately stay sane. I found this statement so powerful and a testament to her inner strength. I was completely inspired by her willingness to be hopeful and fearless in a time of death and disaster.

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