I remember in undergrad when I returned from El Salvador how frustrating it was that I had all of this knowledge about Oscar Romero, the Jesuits, the fair trade and coffee struggles and most I was around at the time did not know or care about this small country or how much it had completely overturned my life. I think in many ways that I could not wait until I was in a room where it was common knowledge and that I did not feel so crazy.

This week I am taking a class on saints and last night we went around the room and each had to say a saint that has influenced us. I would have to say most of the 40 or so people in the room said Oscar Romero. It really surprised me. Tonight we discussed both Oscar Romero and Dorothy Day, the process of canonization and whether or not they might be canonized. Is this what his life was for? What about Dorothy’s since she actively expressed distaste in the thought of her being a saint; yet she had an incredible devotion to some saints. She was quoted saying, “Don’t call me a saint; I don’t want to be dismissed so easily.” The process of canonization is costly and strange. Shouldn’t the money be given to the many Catholic Worker houses or to pacifist organizations?

During John Paul II’s time about 500 people were canonized (called Saints) and 1000 beatified (in the process of becoming a Saint). That is more than all the Saints in the history of the church prior to him being pope combined. I do believe we are called to be saints; however I question our desire as people in canonizing so many that it is more about our denial of our own immortality than honoring the lives. Do we canonize in hopes to one day be canonized ourself in thinking that our lives are somehow less significant if we accept our own finite, moral selves?

Don’t get me wrong, I believe in the power of the communion of saints. I am grateful that this is a part of my tradition and have learned so much and trust in my own faith because of the witness of the lives of the saints. One of the most sacred places I have ever been is the Our Lady of the Angels Cathedral in downtown Los Angeles because I feel like I am standing with the communion of saints, that they are lifting me up, that their faith can inspire mine.

Yet, I keep thinking about how Oscar Romero and Dorothy Day were discussed by wealthy educated people at a ridiculously wealthy school tonight. Would they be excited or proud that we are the people impressed by their lives? What happened to selling everything, taking a vow of poverty, living in simplicity? We have we really learned from their lives if we are here? What are we doing here and why aren’t we out there in the Catholic Worker houses! Are we all hypocrites? What does it mean to believe in education and liberation theology?

For the first time Evan and I are making enough money to be comfortable and it is scaring the hell out of me. Will I become someone else? Will we lose the our desire for justice and a simple lifestyle? Should we really be allowed to be comfortable if others do not have food or a home? Why has that answer changed to yes???