There is little doubt that the Peruvian cooperative Dominican brother, St. Martin de Porres, holds a special place in the hearts of many Vietnamese Catholics, who easily relate to his humble life. On the convent grounds, a six foot statue of St. Martin stands proudly in the semi-courtyard between the chapel and west-wing dormitory as a beacon of hope and consolation to all who flock to his shrine. Annually around his feast (the weekend of November 3), hundreds travel from across the state of Texas to pay homage to this beloved Dominican lay Brother, “Father of the Poor and Sick” and to beseech his favors. Many came to offer gratitude for prayers answered; others sought his intercessions for the well-being and happiness of their families, for employment, for healing of illnesses, for the repose of the souls of loved ones, and the birth of a newborn.

Most humble, St. Martin de Porres
whose burning charity embraces not only the needy brethren,
but also the very animals of the field.
Splendid example of charity, we hail thee and invoke thee,
from the high throne which you now occupy.
Deign to listen to the supplications of your brethren,
that by imitating your virtues,
we may live contented in that state in which God has placed us,
and carrying with strength and courage our cross,
we may follow the footsteps of our Blessed Redeemer
and His Most Afflicted Mother,
that, at last, we may reach the kingdom of Heaven,
through the merits of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.