*We highlight these Saints to inspire our students and contribute to their growth in Catholic education by fostering understanding and appreciation for Catholic values and teachings. We encourage parents to share the stories of these Saints with their children to deepen their spirituality and motivate them to live their faith with conviction, following the examples of these admired role models.*
St. Martin of Tours was a very kind person who lived a long time ago, around 316 AD, when the Roman Empire was still around. He was born in a place called Savaria, which is now part of Hungary. Instead of thinking only about himself, he cared a lot about helping others and teaching them about God’s love. He spent his life telling people about the good news of the Bible, even if they didn’t want to listen at first. He wanted everyone to know how much God cared for them.
St. Martin and his siblings were not raised in the Catholic Church. Christianity had only become legal in the Roman Empire shortly before Martin was born, so it was still new to many. As a result, Martin’s parents followed pagan beliefs while he was growing up and for most of his life. However, when Martin was just ten years old, he felt a strong desire to learn about the gospel and become a Christian.
Martin’s father held a high-ranking position in the Imperial Horse Guard. Because of this, St. Martin moved to Northern Italy where he grew up. His father’s influence also led St. Martin to join the Roman military at the age of 15. He fought in various cities and even served with the Emperor’s guard.
“In the name of the Lord Jesus and protected only by the sign of the cross, without shield or helmet, I shall penetrate the enemy’s ranks and not be afraid.”
— St. Martin of Tours
During his time as a soldier, St. Martin stood out from his comrades because of his Christian values. One day, while in the field, he saw a beggar shivering in the cold. St. Martin felt compassion and cut his cloak in half with his sword to give it to the beggar. That night, he dreamt of giving the cloak not to the man, but to Jesus Himself, who spoke to him in the dream.
“Martin, a mere catechumen has clothed me.”
— Jesus in St. Martin’s vision
At 20 years old, St. Martin decided he didn’t want to be a soldier anymore. After leaving the military, he went to Tours to study his faith with Hilary of Poitiers, who was a respected Church leader. Learning more about his faith gave St. Martin the chance to share it with others. He successfully converted his mother to Christianity, but his father didn’t change his beliefs despite Martin’s efforts.
St. Martin’s first significant move in spreading Christianity in Italy was the construction of his initial monastery, Liguge Abbey, established in 361. He dedicated himself to spreading the gospel and introducing baptism to the churches in the region.
Ten years later, the people chose St. Martin to become the Bishop of Tours. He wasn’t eager to take the position, but because the people wanted him so much, he reluctantly agreed. As bishop, his major achievement was setting up a network of parishes in the diocese. He made it a point to visit each one annually, fought against paganism, spread the gospel, and helped many people embrace Christianity.
Lord, if your people need me, I will not refuse the work. Your will be done.
— St. Martin of Tours
St. Martin also founded an abbey at Marmoutier where he could live as a monk with his followers. There, he immersed himself in prayer and embraced monastic life. His faith was so unwavering that he intervened to convince Emperor Magnus Maximus to spare the lives of the Priscillians who faced a death sentence.
St. Martin died in 397 in Gaul. After his death, many miracles and stories of casting out demons were linked to him, showing how deeply he influenced people spiritually. Despite facing unexpected challenges, St. Martin stayed committed to living for God. His life shows us the value of giving our problems to the Lord and relying on Him, demonstrating a strong model of faith and dedication.
FAMILY ACTIVITY: St. Martin of Tours is known for his devotion to serving the poor. Your family can honor him by volunteering at your local homeless shelter or creating cards and care packages for a local homeless ministry!