St. Martin de Porres Coloring Page

The story of St. Martin de Porres

More than 400 years ago, in the city of Lima, Peru, a baby boy named Martin was born. His father was a Spanish nobleman, and his mother, Ana, was a Black woman who had been freed from slavery. In those days some people treated Martin badly because of the color of his skin. But Martin did not grow bitter. He grew kind.

As a boy, Martin learned to cut hair and to care for wounds and sickness, like a doctor. He loved Jesus very much, and he asked to join the Dominican friars. At first he was only allowed to help as a servant. Martin did not mind. He swept the floors, washed the dishes and cared for the sick friars with a big smile. Later he became a brother of the order.

Martin's heart was big enough for everyone. He brought food to poor families and cared for anyone sick who came to the convent door. People tell wonderful stories about him. Once, when mice were eating the friars' things, Martin is said to have told one little mouse to lead the others out to the garden, and he promised to feed them there every day. And they went! He was so gentle that a dog, a cat and a mouse would eat together from one dish.

St. Martin de Porres died in 1639, and all of Lima mourned him. Pope John XXIII named him a saint in 1962. He is one of the best-loved Black saints, and a patron of animals, the poor and everyone working for fairness and peace. His feast is November 3.

What to color

• His habit: a white tunic with a black scapular and black cape, the clothes of a Dominican brother.
• His face and hands: brown, like Martin's own skin.
• The broom: yellow straw and a brown handle, for his humble work.
• The basket of bread: golden brown, for the food he gave the hungry.
• The dog, cat and mouse: any colors you like, sharing their dish in peace.
• The rosary: brown or black beads at his belt.

A prayer to pray together

When someone is sick or sad, or when people are not getting along, we can say:

St. Martin de Porres, pray for us.

Children can add: and help us be kind to everyone.

Ideas for families and classrooms

• Color this page on his feast, November 3.
• Do a "broom job" with joy: sweep, tidy or wash dishes without being asked.
• Collect pet food or blankets for an animal shelter.
• Bake or buy bread and share it with a neighbor.
• Talk about it: Martin was treated unfairly, but he stayed kind. How can we make sure everyone feels welcome?