English 
24 March 2024 will be the 32nd commemoration of the Day of the Missionary Martyrs, an event rooted in the martyrdom of Saint Oscar Romero on that very date in 1980.
This day, linked to the murder of the Archbishop of San Salvador, offers an opportunity to contemplate the significance of the legacy left by Romero and to pay tribute to those who, like him, sacrificed their lives in service to the Gospel.
– Catholic faithful takes part in a march commemorating the 41th anniversary of the assassination of Salvadorean Saint Oscar Arnulfo Romero (1917-1980) in San Salvador on March 24, 2021. MARVIN RECINOS – copyright AFP
For this edition, we chose as our theme “A heart that burns”, inspired by the Gospel story of the disciples of Emmaus, which guided our journey during missionary month. This theme evokes the power of the testimony of the martyrs, who, like Jesus in the act of sharing the Word and the bread, through their sacrifice kindle a light and warm the hearts of entire Christian communities, inspiring a new conversion, dedication to their neighbour and to the common good.
On the occasion of World Mission Day, celebrated on 22 October, Pope Francis encouraged the women and men who spread the Gospel, recognising their commitment as a total gift of self: “I express my closeness in Christ to all the missionaries in the world, especially to those who are going through a difficult time: the Risen Lord, dear friends, is always with you and sees your generosity and your sacrifices for the mission of evangelisation in faraway places.
During this Day and throughout Lent, let us unite in prayer for all missionaries, especially for those who have sacrificed their lives in service, and in fasting, offering a concrete contribution, such as the equivalent of a meal, to support assistance and development projects for those in need of a brighter and more dignified future.
Materials and aids for Martyred Missionaries Day (missioitalia.it)
