Saint Martin de Porres

St. Martin de Porres was born on December 9, 1579, in Lima, Peru, to an unmarried woman of African descent and a Spanish knight who abandoned his family. Raised in poverty, Martin developed compassion for the poor and afflicted. At 12, he apprenticed with a surgeon, gaining the affection of hospital and prison patients as he shared his modest earnings with those in need.

At 15, Martin joined the Dominicans as an Oblate. His humility, charity, and obedience led the friars to insist he become a lay brother. He spent long hours in prayer and penitence and became renowned for his saintly life. Martin was known for miraculous healings, prophecy, and deep spiritual insight. Although he never left Lima, witnesses attested to his supernatural aid to people in distant lands. He was often seen in ecstasy, surrounded by light or angels.

Martin tirelessly cared for the sick and poor, securing food and alms for those in need and promoting education through the founding of the Holy Cross School. He united people of all backgrounds and is remembered for his boundless charity and peace.

Martin died on November 3, 1639, mourned by all of Lima. His body was later found incorrupt, and he was canonized by Pope John XXIII in 1962. St. Martin de Porres is the patron saint of social justice.

Prayer:

O God, who led Saint Martin de Porres by humility to heavenly glory, grant that we may follow his example and be exalted with him in heaven.

Jonathan Fabian Ginunggil,
Most High Servant,
Jesus, Mary, Joseph Ministry of Love 
(Blessed and Saints and the Nine Choirs of Angels)