St. Martin de Porres

Written By Catholic Apostolate Center

Patron Saint of Public Health Workers and those Seeking Racial Harmony

Martin de Porres was born in 1579 in Lima, Peru when it was a Spanish province. He was the son of a freed slave and a Spanish nobleman. Under Peruvian law at the time, Martin faced many challenges since he was mixed-race. He became a lay Dominican brother (Third Order) and lived a life of prayer and service to the poor. Martin was known for many miracles, including his ability to levitate and bi-locate. He was also known for his work curing the sick, including during multiple epidemics in Lima. Throughout his life, Martin faced constant obstacles because of his mixed-race heritage, but he worked constantly for harmony in his community and others facing his situation. He is the patron saint of all those seeking racial harmony. “I only cure you. It is God who heals you.” -St. Martin de Porres

Pilgrimage Site in the United States

Catholic Apostolate Center
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