Born in the 4th century in what is now Hungary, he was a veteran who, like his father, served in the Roman Army. 

Before entering the military, when he was about 12, Martin was very interested in Christianity and even thought about becoming a hermit. But he was called to serve just three years later and, at the age of 15, became a Roman Soldier. 

By 335, Martin was an Imperial Guard and while making rounds on horseback, he came across a beggar who was suffering from the cold. Moved with pity, Martin cut his military cloak in half and covered the poor man. 

In a dream the following night, Jesus appeared to Martin, wearing the cloak and accompanied by Angels. Jesus said to the Angels: “Behold. Here, is Martin. An unbaptized Roman soldier. He has clothed me. The following Easter Martin was Baptized and from that point on, lived more like a hermit than a soldier. 

Finally, he asked his superiors to release him from duty, telling them: “I have served you as a soldier. Now let me serve Christ. Give my bounty to those who are going to fight, but I am now a soldier for Christ, and it is not lawful for me to fight.” 

Ahead of an ensuing battle, Martin was charged with cowardice, but offered to go to the front with his fellow soldiers unarmed. His superiors agreed but, before the battle could begin, the enemy sued for peace and Martin was released. 

He went to see Hillary, who had become the Bishop of Poitiers, but he had been exiled because of his stance against the Arians. When Hillary was finally restored, Martin went with him and established a monastery where he lived for ten years, while teaching and evangelizing to the surrounding communities. 

In 371 he was made Bishop of Tours and lived in austerity..while serving the poor and continuing to grow the Christian community there. 

At the end of his life, Martin fell out of favor with the Emperor because of his stance on the execution of heretics. While opposed to the heresies, Martin did not believe the heretics themselves should be executed. 

While on a trip to heal a local schism, Martin died at the age of 80. 

St. Martin of Tours, please pray for us.