# St. Martin de Porres: Charity in Difficult Times
*2015-11-03*

> Bill Young reflects on the life of St. Martin de Porres and leads a prayer inspired by St. John Paul II for strength during today’s hardships.

## Who Was St. Martin de Porres?

St. Martin de Porres was born in 1579 in Lima, Peru, to a poor family. His parents were never married; his father abandoned the household when Martin was very young. At the age of twelve he was sent to apprentice with a barber‑surgeon, learning the healing arts. Using those skills, Martin devoted his life to caring for the poor, the sick, and the newly arrived slaves in Lima. He became known as “the charitable Martin,” a model of self‑sacrificial love for both people and animals.

## A Prayer to St. Martin de Porres

Lord, we invoke St. Martin de Porres, whose burning charity embraced the needy and even the animals of the field. May his example inspire us to listen to the cries of the poor, to imitate his virtues, and to bear our crosses with strength and courage. May we follow the footsteps of our Blessed Redeemer and his most holy Mother, that we might attain the kingdom of heaven through the merits of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

## Prayer for Our Present Difficulties (Inspired by St. John Paul II)

Mother Mary, you who know our sorrows and our hearts, hear our plea. We entrust to your Son the challenges of these troubled times. Help us to listen to Him each day, even when life seems severe and demanding. Grant us the words of eternal life, the joy of the Gospel, and the perseverance of suffering that leads to salvation. May the Gospel dwell in our hearts so that we may overcome today’s difficulties and reach the tomorrow Christ invites us to.

*May St. Martin’s charity and Mary’s intercession give us the courage to face today’s trials and hope for a brighter tomorrow.*