The first Black saint in the Americas
Editor’s note: During Black History Month, we ask for the intercession of Saint Martin de Porres as we pray for racial reconciliation and harmony in our communities.
The illegitimate son of a freed Panamanian slave and a Spanish knight, Saint Martin de Porres became a hero to Lima, Peru, his birthplace, for his compassionate care for the sick and poor. Apprenticed at age 12 to a barber-surgeon, Martin also learned herbal medicine from his mother.
After working for several years at a Dominican monastery as a Third Order member, he became a lay brother in 1603. He founded an orphanage and foundling hospital, ministered to African slaves, practiced great penances and experienced mystical gifts. Prelates and noblemen carried Martin to his grave and all Peruvians acclaimed him their beloved saint. He is the patron of hairdressers and interracial justice. (OSV News/Catholic News Service)
To read more about the life of St. Martin de Porres, click here.
