For years, El Salvador remained a land I yearned to visit, both geographically and spiritually. Finally, stepping onto its soil felt like a homecoming, fueled by friendships and a profound awe for the indomitable Salvadoran spirit.
My journey began not in El Salvador but in Adelaide, Australia. There, surrounded by a vibrant Salvadoran community, I discovered the magic of pupusas, a culinary revelation sparking a deeper cultural curiosity. Through these friendships, I encountered individuals marked by adversity—bearing scars of civil conflict, gang violence, and economic hardship. Yet, their resilience radiated brightly, their warmth as boundless as the Pacific coastline frames their land.
”This indomitable spirit finds powerful expression in the life and legacy of Archbishop Oscar Romero. My devotion to him grew thanks to the Oscar Romero scholarship program at the Catholic Theological Union, which allowed me to complete my doctorate degree. Immersed in hours of study and reflection, Romero's message of justice and love became ingrained in me.
During my time in El Salvador, Cardinal Rosa Cháves graciously shared with us a firsthand account of the events preceding Romero’s assassination. His narrative fortified my dedication to Romero’s cause. Bearing witness to the steadfast example set by figures like Cardinal Rosa Cháves and St. Romero reaffirmed how Salvadoran Catholics have been forged through the sacrifice of martyrs and devoted shepherds.
However, a new challenge looms over El Salvador – climate change. Its impact is undeniable, adding another layer of struggle to an already burdened nation. Erratic weather patterns disrupt agriculture, jeopardizing food security, while rising sea levels threaten coastal communities. These challenges resonate worldwide, reminding us that we are all interconnected.
Yet, amidst the hardship, hope persists. The Salvadoran spirit remains strong, evidenced by their unwavering faith, kindness, and resilience. Communities are adapting, finding innovative solutions to water scarcity, and developing climate-resilient crops.
I take pride in being part of Catholic Relief Services, standing in solidarity with El Salvador. We assist millions in adapting to the abrupt shifts wrought by climate change, mitigating its repercussions, and fostering a sustainable future. We strive to make a meaningful impact through reforestation initiatives, water conservation efforts, and support for climate-smart agriculture.
But we cannot do it alone. We need your voice, your advocacy, and your support. We must urge our governments to prioritize programs addressing climate change’s devastating global impact on vulnerable communities.
My time in El Salvador was a fleeting glimpse into a complex and captivating land. But the lessons I carry are etched in my heart. Salvadoreans have taught me the profound strength that lies in resilience, the unwavering power of faith, and the beauty that blossoms even in the face of immense challenges.
Remember, climate change is not an isolated problem; it’s global. By supporting initiatives like those at CRS, we can empower communities like El Salvador to adapt, mitigate, and build a just and sustainable future for all. Let’s stand in solidarity, united by our shared humanity and responsibility to care for our planet. I am certain that is what Msg. Romero would prophetically preach now. His legacy of standing with the marginalized, advocating for justice, and embracing solidarity resonates profoundly in the face of today’s environmental challenges. As we journey forward, let us heed his call and be the voice of change, the hands of compassion, and the stewards of hope in a world yearning for renewal.
