St. Martin de Porres was born in Lima, Peru, in 1579. Trained in healing before entering the Dominican community, he became known for combining a deep life of prayer with remarkably practical care for the sick, poor and abandoned.

As a Dominican lay brother, Martin spent much of his life in humble service, caring for those whom society often overlooked. His kindness, simplicity and willingness to serve made him one of the most beloved saints of Latin America.