St. Anthony's Life began with Mary

St. Anthony of Padua

Feast Day - June 13

Photo caption: With ardent love, he imitated the Immaculate Virgin Mary and followed in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi.

From the outset, his life was markedly Marian being born on the feast of the Assumption, August 15, 1195 AD; and soon afterward baptized in the Church of St. Mary in Lisbon, Portugal. Then, at the age of 15 he completed his studies at the Cathedral School of St. Mary.

St. Anthony is titled the Evangelical Doctor, Wonder-Worker, and Hammer of Heretics; but more importantly he is renowned for his personal holiness. As a true friar minor of the Order of Franciscan Minors, St. Anthony loved and honored the Queen of Heaven. From the pulpit, with simple yet lofty doctrine, he moved multitudes to savor the sweet name of Mary. His devotion was founded on the solid foundation of Catholic doctrine. And, he consequently, bestowed upon the Church a wealth of Mariological insight in his sermons. His writings and sermons display his devotion to the Immaculate Conception, as well as faith in Mary's Perpetual Virginity, her Assumption, and her Maternal Mediation.

This wonderful saint and doctor of the Church found great delight and strength in invoking the "sweet name of Mary," the "New Eve" and "Star of the Sea." His devotion to the poor, humble Virgin led him to imitate and mirror her in her poverty, littleness, and purity of heart. He became, in a sense, the presence of Mary in the world by his holy life.

Images of St. Anthony holding a lily and the Christ child

The lily symbolizes purity, innocence, and integrity. This symbol has been especially associated with the Virgin Mary and other virgin saints. In Annunciation scenes, for example, the Archangel Gabriel is often portrayed as arriving with a lily to symbolize Mary's purity. St. Joseph, too, is frequently shown with the same flower. Images of St. Cecilia, St. Clare, St. Francis and St. Dominic often include lilies. In many places, lilies are blessed on the feast of St. Anthony and given to those who want them. The prayer of blessing (approved by Pope Leo XIII) asks for the gift of chastity, peace, and protection against evil.

God gave Mary an immense honor in choosing her as Jesus' mother. St. Joseph, too, received a similar honor. And when Catholic tradition – through its many painters and artisans – placed the child Jesus in Anthony's arms, they were granting the saint a similar gesture of honor and trust. But it is not merely an image. It is recorded that once another priest actually saw the prayerful Anthony holding the Christ child in his arms.

"O glorios Domina . . ." (O glorious Lady)

Appropriately Anthony's earthly life, ever pure and humble, was brought to a close in a similar tone. When death drew nigh he longed to be taken to the St. Mary, Mother of God Friary in Padua. On June 13^th, after receiving Extreme Unction he intoned his favorite hymn (above), and then died with the Virgin Mary on his lips and in his heart.

Prayers to St. Anthony, Miracle Worker and powerful intercessor!

Novena to St. Anthony.