Memorial of Saint Martin de Porres
“Have the same sentiments as Christ Jesus!” Philippians 2,5-11
Saint Martin de Porres has generally been depicted with a broom in his hand, a symbol of his humble service. Tradition, on the other hand, refers not only to his simplicity but to the peace that radiated with his presence. Martin united the Dominicans, united the city of Lima, brought together millenary cultures, linked races – as they say in Peru: “He made dog, pericote (i.e. mouse) and cat eat from a single plate.” For this reason, Saint John XXIII exclaimed: “May Martin’s example teach many how happy and wonderful it is to follow in the footsteps and obey the divine commands of Christ!” (Homily at the Mass for the Canonization of Saint Martin de Porres, 1962).
