San Martín de Porres was a Peruvian lay brother of the Order of Preachers, known for his deep compassion and dedication to helping the poor. Born on December 9, 1579, in Lima, he was the son of a Spanish nobleman and a freed African slave. He became a member of the Dominican Order and spent his life serving the marginalized in society. He is often depicted with animals, reflecting his love for all living beings. San Martín de Porres was canonized by Pope John XXIII in 1962 and is recognized as the patron saint of social justice, mixed-race people, and the poor.