Martin de Tours

316-397 4th century Feast day: November 11

Sharing what one has, serving without shirking the task.

Who was Martin de Tours?

A soldier of the Roman army born in Pannonia, he once shared his cloak with a beggar frozen with cold. Baptised, he laid down his arms, became a monk and then, against his will, bishop of Tours. Tireless, he evangelised the Gaulish countryside and remains the model of the shepherd close to the little ones.

In their own words

Lord, if I am still necessary to your people, I do not refuse the work; your will be done.

Sulpicius Severus, Letter III

I am a soldier of Christ; I am not allowed to fight.

Sulpicius Severus, Life of Saint Martin