Description
Saint Oscar Romero, archbishop and martyr
Oscar Arnulfo Romero was born in Ciudad Barrios, El Salvador, in 1917 and became Archbishop of San Salvador in 1977. In a country marked by repression and political violence, he preached the Gospel while defending the dignity of the poor, victims and people threatened by abuse. He was shot on March 24, 1980, while celebrating Mass. The Catholic Church recognized him as a martyr; he was beatified in 2015 and canonized by Pope Francis on October 14, 2018. His liturgical memorial is March 24.
A pastor holding a wounded child
The image presents Romero in white clerical clothing, holding a child close to his chest. Behind him are churches, mountains, helicopters, smoke and a burning building. This is a symbolic composition rather than a portrait of one documented episode. The child represents vulnerable people entrusted to pastoral care, while the signs of conflict recall the violence endured by Salvadoran communities. Romero’s halo identifies him as a saint; his protective posture interprets episcopal ministry as closeness to those at risk.
Crafted on linden wood in Poland
The icon is made to order in Poland on a double-primed linden wood panel. The image is printed directly onto the prepared surface and finished with decorative gold-tone metal leaf. A certificate with the year of production and a wall hanger are included. The contemporary process preserves the visible design without claiming that the work is individually hand painted.
For prayer about peace, justice and pastoral courage
This icon is appropriate for a home prayer corner, rectory, seminary, Catholic school, social ministry or parish with ties to Latin America. It can accompany prayer for peace, victims of violence, responsible public witness and clergy serving communities under pressure. It is also a meaningful gift for a priest, deacon, catechist, human rights worker or anyone studying the modern martyrs of the Church.