Saint to Know

St. Martin de Porres (December 9, 1579- November 3, 1639)

Saint Martin de Porres (December 9, 1579- November 3, 1639) came from the humblest of beginnings. Born in Peru, the illegitimate son of a Spanish knight and a previously enslaved African woman, he was subjected to bigotry his entire life. His early life was spent in deep poverty, after his father abandoned the family. At the age of 12 he was apprenticed to a barber-surgeon, where he would learn the medical skills which would gain him renown.

When he was 15, St. Martin wanted to join the Dominicans, however, the law in Peru prevented those of mixed-race from being members of religious orders. Undeterred, St. Martin volunteered to do menial work for the monastery and was allowed to live with the community. He worked in the laundry and kitchens, but soon was given the job of distributing money and food to the poor. In 1601, St. Martin was allowed to take his vows as a lay brother, despite the law. He was put in charge of the infirmary, the post he held until his death.

St. Martin was known for his great love of the Eucharist, and his intense prayer. Contemporary reports tell of levitation and light filling the room while he prayed, even bilocation where St. Martin was seen in distant countries despite never leaving Peru. St. Martin frequently went into the city to care for the poor and sick, especially the Africans who had been brought to Peru as enslaved people. He also founded an orphanage and school. He cared equally for all regardless of race or status. His kindness even extended to animals, caring for the dogs, cats and even mice and rats at the monastery.

St. Martin was beatified by Pope Gregory XVI on October 29, 1837, and canonized by Pope John XXIII on May 6, 1962, the first Black saint of the Americas. St. Martin de Porres, pray for us! © LPi