Our History

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Where Spirituality, Education and the Arts Converge in Harmony

Welcome to the Martin de Porres Center, a beacon of spirituality, education and the arts, lovingly established in 2004 by the Dominican Sisters of Peace.

Our haven bears the name of Saint Martin de Porres, a remarkable Peruvian-born individual, the son of a freed African slave and a Spanish nobleman. Saint Martin’s legacy is one of humility, compassion and unwavering service to the impoverished.

Empowering Journeys: Pioneering Programs and Milestones in Spiritual Growth

In our early years, the Center introduced impactful programs such as The Institute for Maturing Spirituality, a series of presentations offering interfaith insights for adults in the second half of life, emphasizing spirituality and holistic wellness. Collaborative initiatives with the Diocese of Columbus office of Black Catholic Ministries and a compelling presentation by Fr. Timothy Radcliffe, OP, former master of the Dominican Order, marked significant milestones in our journey. We feature art exhibitions on topics crucial to our community as a cornerstone of the Martin de Porres Center's vibrant programming.

Fostering Peace and Resilience

Enriching our mission is the active anti-violence initiative led by the compassionate Dominican Sisters of Peace. Our Dare to Live in Peace programming aims to address the root causes of violence in the local Latinx community. This initiative includes leadership and resiliency training for youth, homework assistance, citizenship classes, legal and mental health support, summer programming and in-school activities through our Rising Youth groups. Collaborating with the Dominican Learning Center, an educational ministry of the congregation, we provide ESL, Spanish GED and Citizenship Test preparation.

At the Martin de Porres Center, we strive to create a nurturing space where individuals can flourish spiritually, intellectually and artistically. Join us on a journey of empowerment and community building. Together, let’s Dare to Live in Peace.
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