How the people arrived in the cove before the massacre at Copapayo

            The people of Copapayo were used to picking up what they could and abandoning their homes instantly when they felt the danger of nearby troops or airplanes attacking them.  In early November of 1983, they were returning from 2 days hiding in the nearby woods.  Pastor, a current village elder, was sent ahead to check the status of the village.  Seeing no sign of danger, Pastor gave the all clear sign, and the people began to return to their homes.  Just as they reached the town, the chaos of a surprise assault began. The helicopters, the army soldiers, and the mortars opened fire on them from above.  The people ran from the fire-storm, and most ended up at the bottom of the hill alongside the lake.  Some dove in the lake, some ran along the shore, some climbed trees.  Chico and Candi, his pregnant wife, and his young son, hid under the lily pads in the lake for 2 days and nights.  Here, in this cove, trapped and terrified, the people of Copapayo prepared to face their darkest hour.

Prayer:

Jesus, as you were pierced by the nails that bound You to Your cross, the people of El Sitio have been pierced by the nails of murdered fathers, brothers, and children and raped mothers and sisters. The strength of their faith and love is their gift to us who listen to their stories. Bind us together in your love.