Martin of Tours(316-397) was the third bishop of Tours. He was born in AD 316 or 336 in Savaria in the Diocese of Pannonia. His father was a senior officer in the Roman Army. At the age of ten, he attended the Christian church against the wishes of his parents became a catechumen. As the son of a veteran officer, Martin at 15 was required to join a cavalry ala. He served a little span of time in the army.
During a winter Martin and his companions were on their way to Amiens. In the middle of the road, they saw a poor man shivering. His fellow soldiers passed by as if they had not seen the helpless man. But, inspired by God’s love, Martin cut off all the military uniform he had in his hand with the sword and gave him half. That night Christ appeared t the saint in that robe. He heard Christ say, “This garment was given by Martine, who has not yet been baptized.” The saint immediately approached a priest and was baptized. Soon after, he resigned from the army.
Later Martin declared his vocation and made his way to the city of Caesarodunum where he became a disciple of Hilary of Poitiers Christian orthodoxy. He opposed the Arianism of the Imperial Court. Many people came there to lead a life as his disciple. He welcomed them with his warm love. Then the first monastery of France was established.
Martin became the Bishop of Tours. He led the people of Tours for 26 years and he made the people to the true spirituality and faith. At the age of 81, in 397, he was called to heaven for eternal reward.