Martin de Porres was born in Lima, Peru, in 1579. His father was a Spanish gentleman and his mother a black woman from Central America. He knew from an early age what it meant to be an outsider. Many people did not accept Martin because his parents were of two different races.

When Martin was fifteen, he became a lay brother at the Dominican Friary at Lima and spent his whole life there working as a barber, a farmer, infirmary attendant, and doing other jobs. Martin would ask for the most humble of tasks, believing wholeheartedly in humility and prayer. It is said that God rewarded Martin with many graces.

Martin de Porres’ kindness was extraordinary. His goodness attracted all kinds of people to his friary and all were welcomed and helped. Martin also had a deep love for animals. He nursed many sick animals back to health. Martin de Porres is a role model for those who are persecuted because of ethnic or racial differences and for those who carry heavy burdens. Martin’s feast day is November 3.

Family Activity

	Create a motto to live by.

	•		On colored paper, help children write vertically with markers the name of Martin or another saint.
	•		Then, write one quality or virtue that describes this saint next to each letter of his or her name.
	•		Display the completed mottoes where everyone can see them.
	•		Note: Including the saint’s last name can increase the challenge of this activity.