SAN MARTIN DE PORRES: Cooperator Brother

SAN MARTIN DE PORRES

1579-1639

Cooperator Brother

           

Saint Martin was born at Lima in 1579, the son of Juan de Porres, a Spanish nobleman and Anna, a freed Panamanian.  At first the father abandoned his little family and Martin’s earliest years where spent in dire poverty.  Later, Juan de Porres’ conscience smote him and, taking the two children to himself and gave them at least the rudiments of an education.

At the age of 15, Martin presented himself at the Dominican Priory of the Holy Rosary in Lima, and was received as a Donado or Tertiary Servant.  In this capacity, he gave himself to the lowliest duties in the house.  It was only after several years that, seeing his evident goodwill and sanctity, his superiors invited him to make a solemn profession as a Cooperator Brother.  He served in various offices in the convent – barber, infirmarian and wardrobe keeper.  He founded an orphanage and a foundling hospital, was put in charge of the convent’s food distribution to the poor, and ministered to African slaves brought to Peru.

Saint Martin de Porres, who all his life cherished a deep devotion to Jesus crucified and longed to make return in some small manner for the immense blessings of the Redemption, died on November 5, 1639.  He was canonized by Pope John XXIII on May 5, 1962, the first Negro from the New World to attain the rank of Sainthood.

                   O God, you led Blessed Martin through humility to the eternal glory: grant that imitating his glorious examples now, we may deserve to be exalted with him in Heaven.  This we ask you through Christ our Lord.  Amen

FEASTDAY:  NOVEMBER 3

                        FEAST