As a seminarian, he was employed the Grand Almonry of France in Paris under Cardinal Gustave Maximilien Juste de Croÿ-Solre.

In 1839, Martin accepted an invitation from Bishop Célestine Guynemer de la Hailandière to immigrate to the United States and join the Diocese of Vincennes in Indiana.

[6] He received his episcopal consecration on November 30, 1853, from Archbishop Blanc, with Bishops Michael Portier and James Oliver Van de Velde serving as co-consecrators, at the St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans.

But, much hard work, a poor dwelling, few consolations, many disappointments, frequent sickness, a violent or lonely death, and unknown grave.

During his 22-year-long tenure, Martin established a seminary to train native clergy, founded numerous missions, and erected the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.