Saint Martin of Tours

Feast Day: November 11

• Martin was born around 316 AD in Savaria, in what is now Hungary, to pagan parents. His father was a senior officer in the Roman army, and Martin was raised in Pavia, Italy, where his father was stationed. At the age of 10, Martin felt drawn to Christianity and became a catechumen, despite his parents' objections.

• At the age of 15, Martin was compelled by Roman law to join the army, following in his father's footsteps. He became a cavalry officer and was stationed in Gaul (modern-day France). Despite being a soldier, Martin lived a life of humility, charity, and piety, deeply influenced by his Christian faith.

• One of the most famous stories of St. Martin's life occurred during his time as a soldier. One bitterly cold winter day, Martin encountered a beggar at the gates of Amiens. Seeing the man shivering, Martin cut his military cloak in half with his sword and gave one half to the beggar. That night, Martin had a vision of Christ wearing the cloak he had given away, and Christ said to the angels, "Here is Martin, the Roman soldier who is not baptized; he has clothed me."

• This vision deeply moved Martin. He soon sought out baptism, which he received at the age of 18. Shortly after, Martin left the army, declaring that he could not serve both Christ and the emperor, saying, "I am a soldier of Christ. I cannot fight."

• Martin became a student of St. Hilary of Poitiers, a prominent theologian and the Bishop of Poitiers. Under Hilary's guidance, Martin founded the first monastery in Gaul at Ligugé around 360 AD. The monastic community became a center of evangelization and played a significant role in the spread of Christianity in the region.

• In 371 AD, Martin was chosen as the Bishop of Tours, despite his initial reluctance. As bishop, Martin continued to live a simple and ascetic life, residing in a small cell outside the city. He established another monastery at Marmoutier, where he trained many future bishops and missionaries.

• St. Martin was known for his tireless missionary work, traveling extensively throughout Gaul to preach the Gospel, convert pagans, and oppose heresies. He was also a strong advocate for the poor and the oppressed, often intervening on their behalf.

• St. Martin's life was marked by numerous miracles, including healing the sick and raising the dead. His reputation for holiness and his dedication to his pastoral duties made him one of the most beloved saints of the early Church.

• St. Martin of Tours died on November 8, 397 AD, in Candes-Saint-Martin, France, at the age of 81. His funeral took place on November 11, and the day was thereafter celebrated as his feast day. He was buried in Tours, where his shrine became a major pilgrimage site.

• St. Martin is the patron saint of soldiers, chaplains, beggars, and France. He is often depicted in art on horseback, sharing his cloak with a beggar.

Saint Martin of Tours, pray for us!