Saint Martin de Tours (316-397), bishop of Tours in the fourth century, known for his miracles and his major role in the Christianization of the countryside, is the patron saint of the church of La Fontaine-Saint-Martin located in the Sarthe.
Traditionally, during his visit to the region, St.Martin met people still practicing pagan rites (sacrifices at Isis and Jupiter). Then he struck a rock with his staff, and a spring of living water burst miraculously. He used this water to baptize pagans, marking their conversion to Christianity. This founding miracle gave its name to the village, and the Saint Martin fountain, still visible behind the church in the cemetery, was built directly on the source.
Saint Martin is one of the most venerated saints in France. His charity, illustrated by the sharing of his coat, and his role of evangelizer explain the extent of his worship: more than 3,500 churches bear his name, making him the most represented patron saint after Sainte-Marie and Saint Peter.
It was Via Sancti Martini France who reported to France Terre de Clochers the existence of a restoration project. Desiring to support this initiative, France Terre de Clochers gave a donation and advised to forward the file to La Sauvement de l'Art Français, which then contributed more widely.
The church of Saint-Martin de La Fontaine-Saint-Martin is part of the diocese of Mans and belongs to the parish of Saint-Jacques-en-Sarthe. The services are held on a special occasion, according to the parish calendar or during special holidays.
