Today, the Church celebrates the liturgical Memorial of Saint Martin of Tours, the third Bishop of Tours (France). Martin was born in Panonnia (current day western Hungary, eastern Austria, northern Croatia, northwestern Serbia, northern Slovenia and northern Bosnia and Herzegovina). As a young man, he served for a time in the Roman cavalry but left military service in 361 and converted to Christianity. Martin lived a monastic life and is credited as the founder of the Benedictine monastery of Ligugé (France). In 371, he was consecrated Bishop of Caesarodunum (Tours).
Saint Martin's shrine in Tours has long been a celebrated stopping point for pilgrims who travel the road to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. As such, his presence continues to inspire modern-day disciples to heed the words of Jesus, for strangers who have passed by are always welcomed, the hungry are fed, the thirsty find drink and the ill are cared for (cf Mt 25:35-36).
Today, we also commemorate Remembrance Day. Remembering all those who have suffered and died in various wars and conflicts in the past century, let us ask Saint Martin to intercede for us so that we too may seek out those who are in need. May we always have the courage to respond in faith and to share the good news of the gospel with those we meet.
Have a great day.
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