Payers from the Past - Dom Hélder Câmara
Dom Hélder Câmara was a Brazilian Catholic archbishop and a pioneering figure in liberation theology. He served as the Archbishop of Olinda and Recife during Brazil's military dictatorship from 1964 to 1985, a period of intense social and political repression.
Known as the "bishop of the slums," he lived simply, giving away his possessions and working directly with the poor. He was a vocal critic of the military regime, speaking out against human rights abuses and the vast economic inequality he saw.
His most famous quote is, "When I give food to the poor, they call me a saint. When I ask why they are poor, they call me a communist." He was a nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize and a powerful voice for non-violent resistance, reminding the world that the pursuit of justice is at the very heart of the gospel.
Come, Lord,
do not smile and say you are already with us.
Millions do not know you,
and to us who do,
what is the difference?
What is the point of your presence
if our lives do not alter?
Change our lives,
shatter our complacency.
Make your word our life’s purpose.
Take away the quietness of a clear conscience.
Press us uncomfortably.
For only thus
that other peace is made,
your peace.
Amen
Dom Helder Camara. 1909 - 1999
