Saint Anthony of Padua, pray for us!

Today is the Feast Day of Saint Anthony of Padua, Doctor of the Church, Miracle Worker and Hammer of Heretics. He is renowned for his personal holiness. His sanctity and wisdom flowed from his profound, penetrating love for the Immaculate Virgin Mary. He imitated her humility and littleness. 

The Queen of the Angels is also our Queen and Mother. Saint Anthony said that "the Blessed Mother will not run away from any sinner. She is appropriately called the Mother of Mercy since she welcomes any sinner who approaches her, offering solace to the afflicted and hope to the despairing." When approaching this tender Mother and sovereign Queen with confidence "we are filled with every good thing, we have everything, we are blessed." Therefore he exclaims: "Through You, Paradise has entered our world!"

The faithful who heard Saint Anthony preach were filled with uncontrollable joy, the heretics and non-believers were filled with sadness and humiliation for their sins.

Saint Anthony, glorious saint and Doctor of the Church, found great delight and strength in invoking the "sweet name of Mary," the "New Eve" and "Star of the Sea". His devotion to the humble Virgin led him to perfectly imitate her poverty, littleness, purity of Heart and leading a holy life.

Saint Anthony, pray for us and all the intentions we receive through the powerful intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary.