“The moment has come to discern the signs of the time, seize the opportunity, and expand the view.” -John XXIII
The Oscar Romero Faith and Solidarity Network in the Americas (SICSAL-USA) is the U.S. representative of SICSAL (Servicio Internacional Cristiano en Solidaridad con los Pueblos de America Latina), founded in 1980 by Christians in solidarity with the peoples of Central America and inspired by the prophetic witness of the martyred Salvadoran archbishop, Oscar Romero.
Our mission is to promote the work of faith-based solidarity in a time of corporate globalization and increasing militarization throughout the Americas. Our goal is to give voice to the just aspirations and non-violent struggles of people across borders for justice, peace, and the integrity of creation: “Another World is Possible!”
As people of hope, we lift up the prophetic witness of the martyrs, whose spirit of generosity lays claim to our lives and inspires us to follow in their footsteps. We honor in a special way the memory of Archbishop Oscar Romero, prophet-martyr of El Salvador.
As people of faith, we believe that justice is an integral part of the proclamation of the Gospel. We seek to promote a spirituality of solidarity, based on a preferential option for the poor, and a prophetic witness of faith communities for justice and peace.
As people of solidarity, we are committed to strengthening our bonds with the struggles of people across the Americas as we strive to create just, equitable and peaceful alternatives to corporate globalization, militarism, environmental devastation and racism.
As people of the Americas, we hope to strengthen a network committed to faith-based solidarity with the struggles of the poor and peoples of color; with women, families and children; with immigrants, refugees and displaced peoples; and with persons of all faiths throughout the Americas.
Co-Presidents: Bishop Alvaro Ramazzini, Catholic Diocese of San Marcos, Guatemala; and Sister Rachel Sarabia, Guatemala City, Guatemala;
General Secretariat: Abilio Pena, Comision Intereclesial de Justicia y Paz, Bogota, Colombia; and Nidia Arrobo, Fundacion Pueblo Indio, Quito, Ecuador.
