Martin de Porres was born in Lima, Peru in 1579, the illegitimate son of a freed black slave woman and a Spanish nobleman. Martin's father abandoned the family, leaving them in deep poverty. After just two years in school, Martin was apprenticed to a barber/surgeon where he would learn to cut hair and medical arts. He would spend hours at night in prayer. As he grew older Martin endured ridicule for being illegitimate and bi-racial. By law in Peru, descendants of Africas and Natives Americans were barred from becoming full members of religious orders, so at age 15 he volunteered to do menial tasks for the Dominican Priory. After eight years, the prior decided to ignore the law and welcomed Martin as a Dominican lay brother. He was assigned to the infirmary, where he served with patience and kindness for the rest of his life. His charity and care for others had no limits or boundaries. He would often take in the poor, sick and injured, placing them in his own bed when there was no room for them in the convent. In addition to his daily work in the kitchen, laundry and infirmary, Martin would beg for alms to feed 160 poor people every day. He cared for animals and founded a shelter for cats and dogs. He also founded a residence for orphans and abandoned children in the city of Lima. These acts of charity demanded much work from Martin, and for this he has become known as "The Saint of the Broom." Martin died of a fever in 1639. Twenty-five years later, his body was exhumed and found to be incorrupt and exuding a sweet fragrance. He was canonized in 1962.
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Will Receive 1 St. Martin De Porres Figurine
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Size:~ 4 Inch x 1.25 Inch
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Material: Polyresin
- Comes with prayer card
- Made in China
- Each one will be slightly different by size, shape, and appearance due to manufacturing!
Prayer Card:
Saint Martin de Porres, your concern and charity embraced, not only your needy brethren, but also the animals of the field. You are a splendid example of charity; we thank and praise you. From above, hear the requests of your needy brethren. By modeling our lives after yours, and imitating your virtues, may we live content knowing that God has looked favorably upon us. Because this is so, we can accept our burdens with strength and courage in order to follow in the footsteps of Our Lord and the Blessed Mother. May we reach the Kingdom of Heaven through the intercession of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
