Gentle and Loving
Saint Anthony of Padua
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Saint Anthony of Padua, was born Fernando Martins de Bulhões (August 15th 1195 – June 13th, 1231) was a Portuguese priest and friar of the Franciscan Order. Born and raised by a wealthy family in Lisbon, Portugal and died in Padua, Italy. Noted by his contemporaries for his powerful preaching, expert knowledge of scripture, and undying love and devotion to the poor and the sick. He was one of the most quickly canonized saints in church history, being canonized less than a year after his death. Saint Anthony was the most celebrated of St. Francis of Assisi’s followers and had the reputation of a miracle worker. On January 16, 1946, Pope Pius XII declared him a doctor of the church. In art he is shown with a book, a heart, a flame, a lily, or the child Jesus. Among his authentic writings are sermons for Sundays and feast days, published at Padua in three volumes in 1979. Saint Anthony is patron saint of the poor and lost property.