Saints

Born in 316 in Hungary, Saint Martin was one of the most popular saints of the Middle Ages. His father was a pagan officer in the army, and as a young man, Martin joined up as a conscript. However, he had already come under the influence of Christianity, and realised that the military life was not compatible with his faith. St Martin was probably one of the earliest conscientious objectors. He m... Read More

Pope. Born in Rome probably, in the 5th century, of Tuscan parents, little is known of Pope Leo's early life. As a young man he was a deacon and was employed as a peacemaker between two generals in Gaul. He was elected Pope in 440 and during his 20 years pontificate, devoted himself to unity and peace in the church. He fought against the teachings of Eutyches, a monk who insisted that Jesus had... Read More

St Josaphat Archbishop. Born in 1584 in Wolodimir, then part of Poland. His parents belonged to the Eastern Rite Church of Kiev (Ukraine) which was then separated from Rome. When John was a young child, his mother explained the icons in church. Years later he told a friend that he felt a spark of fire leave the wounded side of the Crucified and enter his own heart, which was filled with joy. Thi... Read More