Servant of God Friar Martin Maria de Porres Ward

Life and Witness to Racial Justice:      

Servant of God Friar Martin Maria de Porres Ward, O.F.M. Conv., was born in Boston, Massachusetts, in a time when Black Catholics were often marginalized within both society and the Church. Despite systemic barriers, he discerned a call to religious life with the Conventual Franciscan Friars. At a time when Black vocations were neither encouraged nor welcomed, Friar Martin broke through racial exclusion to become the first African American Conventual Franciscan friar in North America.

Yet, the racism he faced in the United States prevented him from fully living out his priestly vocation. He was sent to Brazil, where he ministered for over four decades as a teacher, pastor, and spiritual guide—serving communities that embraced his gifts and honored his presence. His life stands as a powerful witness to the enduring faith of Black Catholics and the painful reality of racial injustice within the Church.

Friar Martin’s legacy calls on the Church to work and pray for a sincere conversion of hearts, minds, and structures that allow racism to continue in the U.S. today, while also confronting its own history of exclusion,  repenting of the ways it has silenced and sidelined Black voices, and embracing the healing work of reconciliation.

Cause for Canonization

Learn more about Servant of God Friar Martin Maria de Porres Ward Cause for canonization.  

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Video Resource

CatholicLifeTV of the Diocese of Baton Rouge presents this video on the canonization journey of Servant of God Friar Martin Maria de Porres Ward.

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Prayer

Gracious and Merciful God,

Send forth your Holy Spirit to dwell among us,

that we, inspired by the witness of your Servant Friar Martin Maria de Porres Ward,

may continue to pray with boldness and hope for an increase in vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life, especially from within Black communities.

Call forth our sons and daughters to hear your voice—

to rise as prophets, priests, religious, and shepherds in your Church.

May they answer your call with courage, knowing they are seen, valued, and needed.

We pray especially for the flourishing of African American episcopal leadership,

that your Church may more fully reflect the richness of your people

Strengthen us in the work of reconciliation and renewal,

and may Friar Martin’s legacy be a beacon of faith, dignity, and inclusion.

Amen.  

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