Unlocking the POWER of Saint Anthony
What if I told you there’s a saint so powerful in his intercessions that he’s known as the ‘Wonder-Worker’? A saint whose name is invoked daily by millions worldwide to help recover lost items and even lost souls. This is the incredible story of Saint Anthony of Padua, a man whose life was filled with miracles, devotion, and unwavering faith.
Did you know Saint Anthony isn’t only the patron saint of lost things, but also of travellers, the poor, and even mail carriers? His story is one of sacrifice, spiritual awakening, and divine power—and it’s one you won’t want to miss.
Context and Early Life: The Foundation
The story of Saint Anthony begins in Lisbon, Portugal, in the year Eleven hundred & ninety five. Born into a wealthy and noble family, he was given the name Fernando Martins at birth. Anthony grew up in a privileged household, receiving a strong education. But even from a young age, he felt a pull toward something greater than worldly comforts.
At age 15, Fernando joined the Canons Regular of St. Augustine, a religious order focused on prayer and study. He spent years immersed in Scripture, prayer, and theology. However, his life took a profound spiritual turn when he encountered the relics of martyred Franciscan missionaries who had been killed in Morocco while spreading the faith.
The Call to Holiness: The Turning Point
This moment deeply moved Fernando’s heart and inspired him to follow in their footsteps. He left the Augustinian order and joined the newly-formed Franciscan friars. It was at this moment that he took the name we know him by today: Anthony, in honor of Saint Anthony of the Desert.
Determined to serve as a missionary, Saint Anthony set sail for Morocco to preach the Gospel and possibly face martyrdom. But God had other plans. While in Morocco, he fell gravely ill and was forced to return home. Divine providence intervened when his ship was blown off course, and he found himself in Italy, forever changing the course of his life.
Miracles and Mystical Events: The Proof of Their Sanctity
Saint Anthony’s path to holiness was marked by extraordinary miracles and mystical encounters that left all who heard his name in awe. His most famous miracles began when his gift for preaching was accidentally discovered at an ordination ceremony. Asked to speak without preparation, he delivered such a powerful sermon that his superiors immediately appointed him as a preacher.
The Miracle of the Fishes: One day, when the locals refused to listen to his preaching, Anthony turned to preach to the fish in the nearby river. As he spoke, the fish rose to the surface and seemed to attentively listen to his words. This miraculous event softened the hearts of the people, and many returned to the faith.
The Eucharistic Miracle: In Rimini, Anthony was challenged by a heretic who doubted the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist. To prove the truth, Anthony performed a miraculous demonstration: he placed the Eucharist in one place and presented a hungry donkey with both hay and the Blessed Sacrament. Before the gathered crowd, the donkey ignored the hay and knelt before the Eucharist, proving the doctrine of Christ’s true presence.
Healing and Deliverance: Anthony was known for countless healings, including restoring sight to the blind, restoring the severed foot of a young person, healing lepers, and curing the sick. Parents would bring their dying children to him, and many were miraculously restored to health.
On multiple occasions, people witnessed tongues of fire above his head while he preached, reminiscent of Pentecost”
He bilocated, appearing in two places at once to save his father from a false murder charge in Lisbon while preaching in Padua
When his body was exhumed 30 years after his death in twelve thirty one, it was discovered that his tongue was incorrupt, a remarkable sign that has been interpreted by many as a testament to his holiness and the fervent preaching he engaged in during his lifetime. The tongue, still fresh and rosy in color, symbolized his eloquence and the profound impact of his sermons, which inspired countless individuals to deepen their faith.
Finding Lost Items: Perhaps his most famous association is helping people recover lost items. According to legend, a novice once stole his valuable Psalter (a book of Psalms). Anthony prayed fervently, and not only was the book returned, but the novice repented and returned to the faith.
Even during his lifetime, his reputation as the ‘Wonder-Worker’ spread far and wide. People flocked to hear his sermons, which were filled with profound wisdom and divine power.
Perseverance Through Challenges: Humanity in Holiness
Though he was graced with many spiritual gifts, Saint Anthony faced challenges like all great saints. He struggled with his health, as his years of traveling, fasting, and ministering to the poor left him physically weak. In addition, Anthony faced opposition from those who envied his popularity and doubted his abilities.
Despite these trials, Anthony remained humble and focused on his mission. He once said, “Charity is the soul of faith. It gives it life.” It was this deep love for God and for others that gave him the strength to continue preaching, teaching, and serving even in dire circumstances.
Actions speak louder than words; let your words teach and your actions speak
St.Anthony
Legacy and Canonization: How They Inspire Us Today
Saint Anthony of Padua died on June 13, 1231, at just 36 years old. However, his legacy was so profound that he was canonized by Pope Gregory the ninth less than a year after his death, one of the fastest canonizations in Church history.
To this day, Anthony is one of the most beloved saints in the world. Pilgrims travel to the Basilica of Saint Anthony in Padua, Italy, to venerate his relics, including his incorrupt tongue, which remains a testament to his gift of preaching.
Every year, on June 13th, Catholics celebrate his feast day, honouring the saint who continues to work miracles and inspire faith around the world.
As we reflect on the life of Saint Anthony of Padua, we’re reminded of his deep devotion to God, his unwavering faith, and his love for the poor and marginalized. His words still echo through time: “Actions speak louder than words; let your words teach and your actions speak.”
While we might know him as the finder of lost things, his life teaches us about unwavering faith, humble service, and trust in God’s plan.
Remember the brilliant preacher, miracle worker, and humble friar who devoted his life to finding lost souls for Christ. Let us close by asking for Saint Anthony’s intercession in our lives:
“Saint Anthony, wonder-worker and servant of God, pray for us, that we may follow your example of faith, humility, and charity. Amen.”
