Born in Lisbon in 1195, Anthony grew up in a wealthy household.  When he was 15 he entered a local monastery.  Ten years later he saw the bodies of the first Franciscan martyrs venerated in church. A desire for martyrdom and the Franciscan habit overtook him. Though he missed out on being martyred, he did become a Franciscan.  Anthony was very smart and soon was asked to train novices in the Order of Friars Minor.

Many miracles took place around Anthony.  He blessed poisoned food, given to him by heretics, and made it safe to eat.  He bi-located and predicted future events. There are reports that the infant Jesus appeared to him as well as Anthony’s spiritual father, Saint Francis.  Anthony died of illness on June 13, 1231 at age 36. He is invoked for the recovery of lost items.

Saint Anthony, you are no stranger to me.  I can’t count the number of times I’ve begged you help finding my keys or phone or any number of things. Thank you for always being there. Right now I can’t think of anything that is lost, so I am going to ask your help keeping a few things. Help me to never lose my wonder at spiritual mysteries. Help me to never lose God’s life in my soul through serious sin – and to never lose my faith in God’s mercy when I do sin. Keep my in God’s love. In Christ’s name. Amen