From Loyola Press:
Martin de Porres was born in Lima, Peru, to parents of mixed race. Raised primarily by his mother, a freed slave, Martin experienced the effects of racism and poverty early in his life. He became the apprentice of a barber, learning not only how to cut hair, but to perform basic medical treatments. Feeling called to give his life to God in service of the lowly, Martin entered the Dominicans, who accepted him as a lay helper and later as a brother. He spent his days caring for the those who were sick and poor, as well as performing menial tasks within the monastery. His nights were spent in prayer, penance, and adoration. Martin treated everyone with respect and dignity, regardless of their race or social status. He was instrumental in founding an orphanage to care for Lima’s many street children.
Living Our Faith- With your children you can...
- Learn more about the life of Saint Martin de Porres and the people of Peru.
- Find out where those who are poor in your community go to obtain healthcare. Find out how you can help.
- Rent a movie or documentary that treats the topic of discrimination in our society. Gather your family and friends to watch the movie and host a discussion about what you can do to stand against discrimination.
Bonus Dominican Trivia! Sr. John Martin Fixa, O.P., who passed away last week, created the Vision of Hope organization to help students in need so their families could afford Catholic education. Many hundreds of St. Ignatius students have been able to attend St. Ignatius because of Vision of Hope. When she became a sister, she stopped using her own name (Judith) and took the names John (to honor her father) and Martin (to honor St. Martin de Porres-who loved and cared for children, especially the poor.) Her funeral took place on November 3rd, the feast day of St. Martin de Porres.
