Thirteenth-century Franciscan priest and Doctor of the Church born in Lisbon, a great preacher. Many ask his help to find lost things.
Life
Anthony of Padua was born around 1195 in Lisbon, Portugal, with the name Fernando. As a young man he joined the Augustinian canons and studied Scripture and theology deeply. Moved by the relics of Franciscan friars martyred in Morocco, he joined the Franciscans and took the name Anthony.
He set out for mission in Africa but fell ill, and on the way back his ship landed in Italy. At an ordination he was suddenly asked to preach, and his remarkable gift for the Word came to light. He went on to work as a preacher and teacher of theology in Italy and France. He died near Padua in 1231 at about thirty-six, was canonized the very next year, 1232, and was declared a Doctor of the Church in 1946.
Spirituality
Anthony's spirituality is preaching rooted in the Word of God and love for the poor. When his own plans fell apart he entrusted himself to God's leading, and along that road his hidden gifts came to light. He is loved today as a familiar friend of all who search for what they have lost.
Reflection
Anthony's mission plans collapsed through illness, but God opened another way. Where my plans have gone wrong, could I look for the path God is opening?