St. Anthony of Padua

Saint Anthony of Padua, whose birth name was Franciscan Thaumaturgist, was born in Lisbon, Portugal, in 1195, into a noble and religious family.

Anthony's life-long desire was to convert Moslems to Christianity. At about the age of 25, Saint Anthony set sail to begin his ministry, but fell ill shortly after arriving in Morocco and was forced to return home to heal; however, his ship was blown off course and he landed in Sicily. It was there that he discovered that he was also a brilliant preacher, and he was recognized as one of the greatest foes of heresies of his time. He converted many of these heretics, rich and poor, common and noble, to the faith, and was given the title "Hammer of the Heretics".

Many miracles have been attributed to Saint Anthony, most of them taking place in Padua (and thus his name).

Saint Anthony of Padua is venerated today as one of the greatest Franciscan Saints. He is the Patron of barren women, lost articles, the poor, and travelers. His Feast Day is June 13.