St. Martin de Porres
– by Marianne Buzzelli
Feast Day Nov 3
1579 – 1639,
St. Martin de Porres was born in Lima, Peru as a son of a Spanish father and mother from Panama of Black or American Indian descent. At the age of 12 his mother sent him to be an apprentice as a barber-surgeon, which was a common tradition of barbers during that time. In their practice as barbers they also were able to care for wounds, draw blood, and give medicines as treatment for illnesses.
It was in this role that St. Martin began his care for the sick and poor. And, in addition to his love for the poor, his love for God lead him to seek entrance into the Dominican Order. In his great humility, St. Martin had thought of entering the order as a lay person to help treat the sick. He served and studied and spent much time in prayer and penance. And, with great humility, compassion, generosity, and love for the poor and sick, the religious members of his order asked to have St. Martin de Porres be professed as a Dominican brother. He cared for all people of every race, color, and social status with great love and compassion.
Among his accomplishments were assisting in founding an orphanage, raising money for poor girls as dowry for marriage or religious life, caring from slaves brought from Africa, and collected alms for the poor. He is the patron saint of the poor and social justice
Among the miracles performed by St. Martin de Porres were bilocation and curing of the sick. Much like St. Francis of Assisi who referred to himself as a poor servant, St. Martin de Porres referred to himself as a “poor slave”. Surely this wonderful saint is an example of the virtues that God asks us to develop of humility, love, and generosity with the poor. What a wonderful way to express your respect and devotion to this saint as you wear this lovely sterling silver St. Martin de Porres saint medal.