St. Anthony of Padua
To have Christ is to have everything
Franciscan Friar * Doctor of the Church
AT A GLANCE
Feast Day
June 13
From
Lisbon, Portugal
Lived
1195 - 1231
Cannonized
1232
Patron Of
Lost Items, Travelers, Sailors, Fisherman, The Poor
Known For
Powerful preaching
Helping recover lost things
"Hammer of Heretics"
"Saint of Miracles"
You Might Find a Friend in St. Anthony If…
your life feels busy, scattered, or overwhelmed.
your plans have fallen apart because of illness or unexpected detours
you want your life to reflect the faith you profess.
you're learning what it means to make Christ the center of your life.
MEET ST. ANTHONY
St. Anthony’s story is one of unexpected turns. Born Fernando Martins in Lisbon, he began his religious life as an Augustinian, but a chance encounter with Franciscan friars changed his path. From a failed mission to Morocco to becoming one of the Church’s most powerful preachers, St. Anthony learned to trust where God was leading even when it wasn't where he expected to go.
“Brother, I would gladly put on the habit of your Order if you would promise to send me as soon as possible to the land of the Saracens, that I may gain the crown of the holy martyrs.”
His Journey
From Lisbon to Padua, the unexpected turns that shaped his life and ministry.
Hallmarks
The qualities that shaped the way he followed Christ.
Christ Was Enough
St. Anthony surrendered himself completely to Christ, trusting Him whether he was shipwrecked, rejected, alone, or called somewhere unexpected. With Christ at the center of his life, he found that he lacked nothing.
St. Anthony continually sought the quiet of contemplative prayer, where he could remain close to Christ and receive from Him. This deep life of prayer became the source from which all the fruit of his ministry flowed.
Contemplative Prayer
St. Anthony possessed a consuming desire to give his life for the Gospel, even if it meant dying as a martyr. Whether preaching to crowds, to those who refused to listen, or even to the fish, he was determined that the Word of God would be proclaimed.
Zeal for the Gospel
"Whoever desires the Spirit must leave the dwelling of the flesh and go up in contemplation of mind."
Sources & Further Reading
The sources, writings, and resources used to research and get to know St. Anthony of Padua. Explore them to learn more.