Though canonized just in 1962 by Pope John XXIII three centuries after his death, devotion to San Martin de Porres has been present in the hearts of generations of Peruvians. From the moment of his death on November 3rd, 1639, the citizens of Lima have remembered his love and devotion to the poorest of the city.
Born in Lima in 1579 in the house pictured above, Saint Martin grew up close to the Dominican Convent of the city. He entered that same convent in 1594 as an aspirant, knowing already that due to his social condition as an illegitimate child and the color of his skin, he would never be an ordained priest.
A friar wrote that Martin exercised charity day and night, healing the sick, giving alms to Spaniards, Indians, and Blacks. He took care of and healed all with great love. The same friar quoted Saint Martin saying, “there is no greater joy than to give to the poor.”
Working in the infirmary of the convent, he not only took care of sick friars, but also cared for every needy person who came to the convent’s porter office seeking assistance.
The house where this great saint was born still stands in downtown Lima. Since 1959, The Dominican Order has operated an institution in the house which assists the neediest of the city, offering them the most basic needs such as food, clothes and health services. The primary focus is on the elderly and adults at risk. They strive to help all those who come to the door with dignity and respect.
It is appropriate that the house where Saint Martin was born functions now as a house where the neediest find affirmation and assistance. The work of Saint Martin, which is the work of Christ himself, continues in Lima just a few blocks away from the Convent where he lived.
A small chapel accessed from the internal courtyard of the house marks the room where Saint Martin was born. Ornate tiles decorate the small room, and a beautiful statue of the Saint reminds the visitor of the historic event that happened there. A recently opened small museum on the second floor tells the story of Saint Martin, ensuring that future generations will know the story of the saint.
Located just across the street from the Sanctuary of Saint Rose of Lima, which marks the birthplace of Saint Rose, the House of Saint Martin is worth a quick visit. Even if you do not visit the museum, you will be warmly welcomed and shown the chapel. If you visit at lunch time, you will see a large crowd, mostly elderly men and women, who gather for lunch. Address: Jr. Callao 535
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