<p>Martin was born about 316 in Pannonia (Hungary). Because his father was an army officer, Martin was conscripted to serve in the army. His parents were pagans but Martin became a Christian catechumen and was baptized at 18. Consequently, he decided that he should not be a soldier and became what could be called a conscientious objector. When the ensuing charges against Martin were finally dropped, he was free to pursue his vocation as a monk.</p>
<p>In 360, Martin settled in Gaul (France) and was soon joined by disciples; together they founded the first monastery in Gaul. In 371 Martin was proclaimed Bishop of Tours by the people. He served as a bishop-monk and converted pagans to the faith until his death in 397.</p>
<p>Everything we know about Martin was written by his friend Sulpicius Severus. The biography relates the many good works and wondrous deeds Martin performed which preserved his memory and made him such a popular saint. In art, he is usually depicted on horseback, handing his cloak to a poor man. Martin is a patron of France, soldiers and vintners.©2011 <em>Living with Christ, </em>Novalis - Bayard Press Canada Inc., <strong>http://www.livingwithchrist.ca/</strong>. Reprinted with permission.</p>
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