Saint Martin de Porres – One of the Greatest Saints in History – #2
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Gift of healing
Martinho became very efficient in this profession from an early age. The grace of God was undoubtedly already acting upon him. His work routine at the barbershop entered an accelerated rhythm as people from all social classes flocked to seek young Martinho's help. He received patients with the most different needs.
There, he treated illnesses and toothaches, performed surgeries, applied medicines for the most diverse ailments, and used to say: “I medicate you, God heals you!”. The fact is that everyone there was actually relieved and very grateful. However, the religious vocation spoke louder in Martinho's heart. His wish was to wear the Dominican habit.
The Convent
There was in Lima Santo Domingo de Lima or Convento Del Santíssimo Rosário. This convent was founded in 1535. With architecture influenced by the Baroque style and cloisters of unmistakable beauty, we can also find a magnificent image of the Holy Virgin of the Rosary, the patron saint of Peru, and the Order of Preachers.
Convento Del Santíssimo Rosário - Image Source
However, at that time, the Dominican Order did not allow the entry of a black or mulatto brother, as mestizos were called. However, the superiors of the convent, clearly realizing that the boy really had a tremendous religious vocation, allowed him to enter the order but as a tertiary, that is, not as a professed religious (one who professes the 3 eternal vows of obedience, poverty, and chastity), but rather as “Donato,” a kind of helper, who does all sorts of tasks.
Martinho was happy at being accepted into the order and began to carry out the most humble jobs there, always with the spirit of serving and not being served. He cared for the infirmary and the friars' clothes, cut everyone's hair, worked as a bell ringer, and swept the floor with impressive mastery. So much so that he will later be represented in his iconography with a broom in his hand.
Prayer Life
Martinho also dedicated around 6 to 8 hours a day to practicing Prayer. He was gifted with several extraordinary gifts, such as the gift of bi-location, the possibility of being in two places simultaneously.
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It was a well-known fact and common knowledge that Martinho entered through closed doors, crossing walls to reach places where his presence was necessary. All of this was evidently possible through the grace and mercy of God to carry out charity and alleviate the pain of a sick brother.
Don't miss the following chapters in the life of this great saint soon!
to be continued...
Bibliography; Martin de Porres: A Saint of the Americas by Brian J. Pierce
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