Born in Lisbon, Portugal, in 1195, to a noble family and called Ferdinand, he changed his name to Anthony after joining the Franciscans.
Anthony was outspoken against the charging of excessive interest on loans of money which was a predominant vice in Morocco where he served.
He died in Arcella on 13th June 1231. Only 11 months later, on 30th May 1232, Anthony was canonized by Pope Gregory IX. He was declared a Doctor of the Church by Pope Pius XII in 1946.
Novena to St. Anthony
Come, Holy Ghost, Creator blest, and in our hearts take up thy rest;
Come with Thy grace and heavenly aid, to fill the hearts that Thou has made.
St Anthony, powerful in word and work
. . . Grant us what we ask of thee
St Anthony, our patron and advocate
. . . Grant us what we ask of thee
St Anthony, attentive to those who invoke thee
. . . Grant us what we ask of thee
St Anthony, whom the Infant Jesus so much loved
. . . Grant us what we ask of thee
For our Holy Father, Pope Leo
. . . Our Father, Hail Mary & Glory be to the Father…
For our special intentions, our sick and our friends, living and dead
. . . Our Father, Hail Mary & Glory be to the Father…
Novena Prayer
O holy St Anthony, gentlest of saints, your love for God and charity for your neighbour made you worthy when on earth to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited on your word which you were ever ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety.
Encouraged by this thought, I implore of you to obtain for me my request (mention it here). The answer to my prayer may require a miracle; even so you are the saint of miracles.
O, gentle and loving St Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my prayer into the ears of the sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to linger in your arms and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Amen
St. Anthony’s Blessing
(given to him by St. Francis)
May the Lord bless you and take you into his keeping;
May He show you His countenance; and take pity on you;
May He turn His eyes towards you and give you His peace.
Prayer for Lost Items
Unfailing prayer to Saint Anthony
