Bishop
Saint Martin, Bishop of Gaul, lived in France. He was renowned for his charity and for the care he showed to the poor. Before embracing the monastic life, he had served as a military commander under the Emperor Julian the Apostate. He was distinguished for his courage in battle.
During an attack, he encountered a beggar on the road and gave him his garments. That same night, the Lord appeared before him and promised him victory over his enemies, which was soon fulfilled.
After receiving him with great honor, the emperor proposed that sacrifices be offered to the idols. Saint Martin, however, refused, desiring instead to become a monk and dedicate himself entirely to Christ.
After seven years of ascetic life, he was appointed Bishop of Gaul. Among other spiritual gifts, he was granted the grace of prophecy and the working of miracles. He reposed toward the end of the fourth century.
