1195 - June 13, 1231
Feast Day - June 13 "St. Anthony, St. Anthony, come around! Something's lost that must be found!" Did you learn this rhyme in childhood? St. Anthony of Padua is more than the patron saint for lost items. By his life, he shows a special interest in lost souls. St. Anthony was born to noble parents, but he preferred a simple life of faith to the riches of his childhood. He joined the Franciscan order in 1220. He quickly became known for his eloquence in preaching. He had a way of reaching all sorts, from nobles to clergy to those who had fallen away from the Catholic faith. In addition to preaching, St. Anthony organized supplies for the poor and negotiated release for prisoners of war between Italian city-states. On June 13, he became very ill and asked to be taken back to Padua, where he died after receiving the last sacraments. Anthony was canonized less than a year later and named a Doctor of the Church in 1946 However you or your loved ones feel lost this week, pray for St. Anthony's intercession! Anthony should be the patron of those who find their lives completely uprooted and set in a new and unexpected direction. Like all saints, he is a perfect example of turning one’s life completely over to Christ. God did with Anthony as God pleased—and what God pleased was a life of spiritual power and brilliance that still attracts admiration today. He whom popular devotion has nominated as finder of lost objects found himself by losing himself totally to the providence of God. We’ve all lost things we need – car keys, cell phones, that favorite sweater! Next time you find yourself in a jam, say a quick prayer to St. Anthony, the patron of lost articles! To thee do I hasten, O blessed Saint Anthony! Help me in my present affliction. I recommend what I have lost to thy care, in the secure hope that thou wilt restore it to me if it be to the greater glory of God and to the spiritual benefit of my soul. |
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