Who was Saint Martin of Tours?

St. Martin of Tours, Bishop, was born ca. 315 CE in the Roman province of Pannonia (present day Hungary). Martin was the son of a Roman legionnaire. He also followed the military calling but converted to Christianity. When stationed near Amiens, Martin gave half of his military cloak to a near naked beggar and the next night dreamed that Jesus was that beggar. His vision convinced him to seek release from military service and to seek baptism. Eventually, Martin became Bishop of Tours (France), he was praised by the clergy and lay people for his gracious counsel and leadership. St. Martin died at Candes, near Tours, 397 CE.

In art, St. Martin is depicted as a Roman soldier on horseback, cutting his cloak to share with the beggar. The French Word for that cloak is the origin of the Word chapel. 11 November is St. Martin's Memorial Day. He is the patron saint of soldiers, tailors, beggars, and hotel directors.