Saint Anthony of Padua
Preacher of the Gospel and Friend of the Poor
Saint Anthony of Padua was a Franciscan priest, gifted preacher and devoted student of Sacred Scripture. He is remembered for his love of God, his service to the poor and his ability to explain the Catholic faith with clarity and compassion.
His Early Life
Saint Anthony was born in Lisbon, Portugal, around 1195 and was baptized with the name Fernando. As a young man, he entered the Canons Regular of Saint Augustine, where he devoted himself to prayer and the study of Scripture.
His life changed after he witnessed the faith of Franciscan missionaries who had been martyred in Morocco. Inspired by their courage, Fernando joined the Franciscan Order and received the name Anthony. He hoped to become a missionary, but illness prevented him from completing that mission.
A Gift for Preaching
Anthony’s remarkable knowledge of Scripture was discovered when he was unexpectedly asked to preach. His words were simple, powerful and filled with wisdom.
He traveled throughout Italy and southern France, preaching the Gospel, teaching the faith and calling people to conversion. He also defended the poor and spoke against injustice and corruption.
Saint Francis of Assisi recognized Anthony’s knowledge and entrusted him with teaching theology to the Franciscan friars. Anthony always sought to unite study with prayer and knowledge with love.
The Child Jesus
Saint Anthony is often pictured holding the Child Jesus. This image comes from a tradition that Anthony experienced a vision of the Christ Child during a time of prayer and contemplation.
The Child Jesus represents Anthony’s closeness to Christ, while the Bible commonly shown in his hands represents his extraordinary knowledge and preaching of the Word of God.
His Final Days
Anthony spent his final years near Padua, Italy. Although weakened by illness and years of demanding ministry, he continued preaching, hearing confessions and serving those in need.
He died on June 13, 1231, near Padua. His final words expressed his longing to see the Lord. The Church celebrates his feast every year on June 13. He is also honored as a Doctor of the Church because of his important teaching and understanding of Scripture.
As Saint Anthony neared death, the friars noticed him gazing intently upward and asked what he saw. He replied, “I see my Lord.”
Prayer to Saint Anthony
Saint Anthony, faithful preacher of the Gospel and friend of those in need, pray for us.
Help us find what has been lost, especially faith, hope and peace. Teach us to love Sacred Scripture, care for the poor and remain close to Jesus.
Guide us in our daily lives and lead us always toward Christ.
Amen.
