"Tony, Tony, look around—something's lost and must be found!"
If you’ve ever uttered this phrase in desperation, you're already familiar with the legendary power of St. Anthony of Padua, the Catholic Church’s go-to intercessor for lost items. But there's far more to this beloved saint than helping you find your car keys.
Renowned for his eloquence, humility, and deep compassion, St. Anthony’s legacy goes far beyond simple prayers for lost things. From his miraculous preaching to his unwavering devotion to the poor, his life continues to inspire millions worldwide. Whether you're searching for your faith, your path, or just your phone, St. Anthony might be the saint you didn’t know you needed.
Who is St. Anthony of Padua?
St. Anthony of Padua was born Fernando Martins de Bulhões in Lisbon, Portugal in 1195. Originally an Augustinian monk, he later joined the Franciscan Order after being inspired by the martyrs of Morocco. Though he never made it to Morocco himself due to illness, God had other plans. He became one of the most powerful preachers of his time, known for his deep knowledge of Scripture and his ability to speak directly to people’s hearts.
St. Anthony of Padua’s Feast Day
St. Anthony’s feast day is celebrated on June 13th, a date that draws crowds of pilgrims to Padua, Italy and around the world. On this day, churches are filled with lilies (his traditional flower), special Masses are held, and devotions are offered to honor his life and miracles.
St. Anthony is the Patron Saint of…
Lost Items
The most well-known aspect of St. Anthony’s intercession began when a novice stole a book of psalms from Anthony. After praying, the thief not only returned the book but also rejoined the religious order. This became the basis of St. Anthony's powerful reputation for recovering lost items.
Lost Souls
He is also the patron saint of lost souls, helping people find their way back to faith, clarity, or peace of mind.
Travelers
Due to his journeys and missionary spirit, St. Anthony is invoked as a spiritual and physical protector for travelers.
The Poor
Anthony had an unshakable commitment to the poor and hungry. His deep compassion for the less fortunate earned him lasting admiration.
Saint Anthony Prayer
One of the most beloved devotions to St. Anthony is the prayer:
"O Holy St. Anthony, gentlest of saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Encouraged by this thought, I implore you to obtain for me [mention your request]. O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the Sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms. The gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Amen."
Saint Anthony Prayer Lost Things
The famous and quick prayer for lost objects:
"St. Anthony, St. Anthony, please come down. Something is lost and can't be found!"
For a more traditional version:
"Dear St. Anthony, please come around: something is lost and it cannot be found. Help me to find [name the item]. Amen."
St. Anthony of Padua
Public Preacher, Franciscan Teacher
After a surprise impromptu sermon revealed his extraordinary knowledge, Anthony was quickly appointed as a teacher and preacher. He preached across Italy and France, attracting thousands.
The Choice of Padua
Though he traveled widely, Anthony chose Padua as his home. He died there in 1231, and his tomb remains a place of pilgrimage.
Miracles and Traditions of St. Anthony
Numerous miracles are attributed to St. Anthony: from healing the sick to saving sailors from storms. He is also known for the “Miracle of the Mule,” where a donkey allegedly knelt before the Eucharist to prove the Real Presence to a skeptic.
St. Anthony and the Child Jesus
One of the most iconic images of St. Anthony depicts him cradling the Infant Jesus, reflecting a vision he had during a night of prayer.
Anthony the Teacher, Preacher, Doctor of the Scriptures
He was declared a Doctor of the Church in 1946 for his powerful theological writings and teachings.
10 Facts About St. Anthony
Born in Lisbon, Portugal.
Died at just 36 years old.
Joined the Franciscans after witnessing their martyrdom.
Known as “The Hammer of Heretics.”
His tongue remains incorrupt—a symbol of his eloquent preaching.
First Franciscan to teach theology.
Patron of Lisbon and Padua.
Invoked for both spiritual and physical healing.
Associated with lilies and bread for the poor.
Over 5 million pilgrims visit his basilica in Padua annually.
St. Anthony of Padua Fun Facts
The stolen book that launched his patronage of lost things is still preserved in Padua!
He’s one of the most quickly canonized saints—less than a year after his death.
Many Italian families name their sons Antonio in his honor.
Some Catholic households keep a statue of St. Anthony upside down until their prayers are answered!
FAQ
What is the meaning of the St. Anthony medallion?
The medallion often shows St. Anthony holding the Infant Jesus or a lily—symbols of purity, devotion, and miracles.
What does Saint Anthony protect you from?
He offers protection from spiritual loss, misfortune during travel, and helps recover what’s lost.
What is the symbol for Saint Anthony?
The lily, the book of Scriptures, and the Infant Jesus.
What is the meaning of St. Anthony's statue?
It typically portrays him in Franciscan robes, holding the child Jesus and a lily, reflecting his piety and miracles.
Why is Saint Anthony the patron of Lost Things?
Because of a miracle in which his prayer brought back a stolen book, sparking centuries of faith in his intercession.
What is St. Anthony the patron saint of?
Lost things, lost people, lost souls, the poor, and travelers.
What does Saint Anthony help you with?
He helps with recovery of lost items, spiritual direction, protection during travel, and finding clarity.
What is St. Anthony well known for?
His miraculous ability to find lost things, his fiery and faithful preaching, and his deep care for the poor.
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