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May 25, 2015San Salvador, El Salvador (CNS)—On the occasion of the beatification of El Salvador's Archbishop Oscar Romero, Pope Francis sent a note that was read to those present for the May 23 ceremony.
The beatification is reason for great joy, he said, especially "for those of us who find joy in the example of the best sons of the church."
Archbishop Romero "constructed peace with the force of love, gave testimony of his faith his life," the pope wrote.
He reminded others that God never abandons us in our difficulties.
"He sees oppression, hears the cries of pain of his children, helps to free them from oppression and takes them to a new and fertile land," the pope wrote.
In difficult times, Archbishop Romero "guided, defended and protected his flock, remaining loyal to the Gospel, in communion with the church," he said.
His ministry, the pope said, was distinguished for particular attention to the poorest and marginalized.
Those who have Archbishop Romero "as a friend in faith, who invoke him in as protector and intercessor, who admire him, should find in him strength and energy to build the kingdom of God," and should work for a more equitable and dignified social order, the pope said.
"This is the moment for favorable and proper national reconciliation. The pope participates in this hope, is united in prayer, so the seed of martyrdom is entrenched in the true paths of the sons and daughters of this nation, which prides itself on carrying the name of the divine Savior of the world."
