The Windows of St. Jerome |
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St. Martin of ToursFeast Day November 11 (316-397) Martin was born in Sabaria (now Hungary) to pagan parents. At age 15 he was forced to serve in the army against his will. He became a Christian catechumen and was baptized at 18. He lived more like a monk than a soldier. One very cold day Martin came upon a poor beggar, moved by compassion he divided his coat in two and gave half to the poor man. The part he kept for himself became the famous relic of St. Martin's cloak. He refused the war bounty at age 23 stating, "I have served as a soldier; now let me serve Christ. Give the bounty to those who are going to fight. But I am a soldier of Christ and it is not lawful for me to fight." After he was set free from the war he enrolled in the disciples of St. Hilary. He later became a monk and established the first French Monastery near Poitiers. The people of Tours demanded he become bishop. They tricked him into the city under the ruse of sick people in need; once there, reluctantly he became bishop. His brother bishops thought his unkempt appearance undignified for the office. Martin fought paganism and pleaded for mercy to heretics (fought against putting heretics to death). Martin is one of the most popular saints and one of the first not to be a martyr. He died at the age of 81 from illness, ending a life of exemplary humility. Click on one of the Saints to the right to learn more about them. Contact the Rectory for more information on purchasing prints of your favorite window(s). |
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