Optional Memorial of St. Martin de Porres, 1579-1639; the son of a freed woman of Panama, probably black but also possibly of indigenous stock, and a Spanish grandee of Lima, Peru, who ultimately deserted the family; Martin was raised in poverty; after nine years as a Dominican "lay helper," Martin was requested by the community to make full religious profession; his nights were spent in prayer, and his day were spent nursing the sick and caring for the poor; he was granted many extraordinary gifts; he was a friend of St. Rose of Lima
Optional Memorial of St. Martin de Porres, 1579-1639; the son of a freed woman of Panama, probably black but also possibly of indigenous stock, and a Spanish grandee of Lima, Peru, who ultimately deserted the family; Martin was raised in poverty; after nine years as a Dominican "lay helper," Martin was requested by the community to make full religious profession; his nights were spent in prayer, and his day were spent nursing the sick and caring for the poor; he was granted many extraordinary gifts; he was a friend of St. Rose of Lima