Interesting Facts about St Anthony of Paduva

(Feast Special – June 13)

St Anthony also known as the ‘wonder worker’ is one of the fastest cannonized saint in the history. He was canonised as a saint on 30 May 1232, less than a year after his death (June 13 1231). In canonizing St Anthony in 1232, Pope Gregory IX spoke of him as the “Ark of the Testament” and the “Repository of Holy Scripture.” His effectiveness as a preacher calling people back to the faith resulted in the title “Hammer of Heretics.” Just as important were his peacemaking and calls for justice. In January 1946, he was proclaimed a doctor of the church. Anthony of Padua is one of the Catholic Church’s most popular saints. Saint Anthony of Padua, patron saint of lost and stolen articles, was a powerful Franciscan preacher and teacher. He’s typically portrayed holding the child Jesus — or a lily — or a book — or all three — in his arms.  Many people give alms commonly in form of bread to St. Anthony in thanksgiving to God for blessings received through the powerful intercession of him. St. Anthony of Padua’s life is what every Christian’s life is meant to be; a steady courage to face the ups and downs of life, the call to love and forgive, to be concerned for the needs of others, to deal with crisis great and small, and to have our feet solidly on the ground of total trusting love and dependence on God. St Anthony is beloved throughout the world and is responsive to all people and all needs. His intercessory powers are awesome.