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Anthony of Padua has been known for centuries in the Catholic Church as the Miracle Worker. He was born of wealthy parents in Lisbon, Portugal, in the year 1195. Anthony had a life span of only 36 years; for the latter eleven of those years he lived as one of the earliest Franciscan Friars. Known during his lifetime as a powerful preacher and teacher of theology among his Franciscan brothers, Anthony was made a saint in a relatively short time after his death. Over 800 years later, in 1946, by decree of Pope Pius XII, Saint Anthony became only the 29th person in 2000 years to receive the title of Doctor of the Church. Pope Pius XII pointed out that popular devotion to Saint Anthony usually focuses around favors received through his intercession. The Pope pointed out that there is another side to this great saint: "Anthony gives us a model of holiness. Let us imitate that which we delight to celebrate." Pope Pius suggested that we turn to Saint Anthony, not just for favors; but that we ought also to look to him to learn the path of holiness of life. The enduring impact of his teaching and the example of his own life offer us much to ponder and, ultimately, give great glory to God.

This brief passage about Saint Anthony is taken from an essay by Father Stephen Lynch, OFM. The complete essay is available as part of a recording available from the National Shrine of Saint Anthony and Saint Jude, entitled Saint Anthony: Reflection and Novena. For more information about this recording, click here.

For information about the statue of St. Anthony featured at the National Shrine of St. Anthony and St. Jude, click here.