St Anthony of Padua

This doctor of the church was born in Lisbon, Portugal, and joined the Augustinians at age 15.

In 1220 he entered the Franciscans to become an African missionary and was sent to Morocco.

However, poor health forced his return to Europe and a storm at sea deposited him in Sicily.

He travelled to Assisi, where his gift for preaching was recognized and put to use in Italy and France.

St. Francis appointed him the order’s first “lector in theology”; he also was the superior of several communities.

Many believers seek his intercession when something is lost.

Text: Catholic News Service