American Rhetoric: Movie Speech

"Romero" (1989)

Archbishop Oscar Romero Delivers Oration at the Funeral of Father Rutilio Grande

Audio mp3 delivered by Raul Julia

Romero:  If this were an ordinary funeral, I'd speak of my friendship with Father Grande. At crucial moments in my life he was always there, close to me, and those times will never be forgotten.

But this is a moment to gather from these deaths a message for all of us who remain on pilgrimage. The liberation that Father Grande preached was a liberation rooted in faith. And because it is so often misunderstood, for it Father Rutilio Grande died.

Who knows? Perhaps the murderers are listening to these words.

So we want to tell you, murderous brethren, that we love you, and that we ask for repentance in your hearts.

  Memorial Burial Site of Father Rutilio Grande