Catholic Saints St. Martin de Porres
Nov 3, 2025
Dr. Scott Heffelfinger, a moral theology expert from the Augustine Institute, sheds light on the inspiring life of St. Martin de Porres. Born in Lima to a Spanish nobleman and a freed African slave, Martin faced discrimination yet dedicated himself to serving the marginalized. His work as a barber-surgeon and founder of an orphanage exemplified his charity. Listen as Dr. Heffelfinger discusses Martin's miraculous healings, his humility in addressing racial injustice, and the lasting impact of his legacy as a patron of social justice and racial harmony.
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Martin's Place Among Early American Saints
- Martin de Porres was born in Lima in 1579 and is actually older by birth than St. Rose of Lima.
- Their friendship and shared Dominican life link two of the earliest American saints.
Humble Origins And Early Holiness
- Martin was the illegitimate son of a Spanish nobleman and a freed slave, and his darker features led his father to initially abandon the family.
- Despite poverty, Martin showed early holiness: long nightly prayer and giving away money meant to buy groceries.
A Father Returns And Reconciles
- Martin's father later reconciled, educated his children, and provided for them, even becoming governor of Panama.
- The reconciliation highlights providential second chances in Martin's life story.