About

St. Martin was born around the year 316 in Sabaria, a town in Pannonia near the famous Benedictine monastery dedicated to his name. Against the wishes of his parents, who were pagans, he associated with Christians and became a catechumen at the age of ten. At fifteen, he joined the Roman Army and served under two Roman Emperors, Constantius and Julian. While in the service, he met a poor, naked beggar who asked for alms in Christ's name. Martin had nothing with him except his weapons and a soldier's cloak. He took his sword, cut the cloak in two, and gave half to the poor man. That night, Christ appeared to him clothed with half a cloak and said, "Martin, the catechumen, has clothed me with this cloak." At the age of eighteen he was baptized. After serving for another two years in the army he was dismissed. Martin studied under St. Hilary and later he became a priest (monk) and then Bishop of Tours. His feast day is celebrated on November the eleventh.

St. Martin of Tours has served the people of Forney, Talty, Crandall, and surrounding areas since 1891.Throughout our 132 year history, the strong faith and selfless sacrifice of the parishioners has made St. Martin of Tours a special place that lifelong parishioners, newcomers, and visitors all find rare and uniquely inviting. Though a fire destroyed the original church in 1929, the parish quickly rebuilt, and only four and a half months later, constructed and dedicated the present church. Standing "like a monument on the prairie", the "Church on the Ridge" serves as a legacy of faith and perseverance of many deeply-rooted families who contributed to what remains and flourishes today. St. Martin of Tours, under the leadership of Father Patrick Olaleye, thrives as a parish with over 700 registered households and continues to serve as a strong witness to the community.