Saint Anthony of Padua, often called Saint Anthony of Lisbon, is one of the most venerated saints of the Catholic Church. Born in Lisbon, Portugal, in 1195 as Fernando Martins de Bulhões, he led an exemplary life dedicated to faith, piety and service to others.
As a young man, Fernando joined the order of Canons Regular of St Augustine and was ordained a priest. However, inspired by the testimonies of Franciscan martyrs, he felt the call to join the Franciscan order. So he joined the Friars Minor and took the name Anthony in homage to St Anthony the Great, an Egyptian hermit.
As a Franciscan, St Anthony lived in simplicity, poverty and total devotion to God. He was known for his eloquent and inspiring preaching, attracting many people to the Christian faith. His ability to communicate the truths of the faith in a simple and accessible way earned him the title of "the heretics' hammer".
St Anthony was also famous for his miracles, including his ability to find lost objects. This reputation led to him being invoked by many people in search of lost objects, hence his title of patron saint of lost objects.
In 1231, at the age of 36, Saint Anthony died in Padua, Italy. Despite his untimely death, his spiritual legacy has endured down the centuries. He was canonised less than a year after his death, and his feast day is celebrated on 13 June.
Saint Anthony of Padua is revered as a powerful intercessor, a model of unshakeable faith and an example of a life dedicated to the service of God and others. His life continues to inspire millions of people around the world to seek God in simplicity, love and devotion.
