St. Anthony of Padua is often called upon when we need to find something which is lost, but his life shows us that the only way that we as people can truly find ourselves is by trusting in God.
Anthony was born in Portugal and became a priest at a young age. Anthony originally joined an Augustinian order. In his time at the monastery, he studied theology, leading to a deep knowledge and understanding of the mysteries of God.
Inspired by the sacrifices made by Franciscan martyrs in Morocco, Anthony felt called to follow them in their mission to spread the Church into a country which was run by Muslims. As soon as he arrived in Morocco, Anthony became very sick. After a few months of suffering serious illness, it was decided that Anthony would return home.
God, however, had other plans. During his journey home, the ship was blown off course, and Anthony landed in Italy. Anthony eventually regained his health and moved to a hermitage in Northern Italy. Anthony felt well suited to this life and enjoyed the time to be alone with God, but once again, the Lord would change Anthony’s path.
In 1222, several Dominican friars came to visit Anthony’s order. The Dominicans are a preaching order, while the Franciscans are not, so it was assumed that one of the Dominicans would preach at the Mass. They however, were not prepared to do this, and Anthony was asked to speak about whatever the Holy Spirit inspired him to say. Anthony’s sermon was so knowledgeable and full of faith, that his superior would no longer allow him to continue life as a hermit.
Anthony was sent to preach to the people of Northern Italy. In contrast to many of the preachers of that time, Anthony did not just speak about living a humble and holy life, he actually lived it. Although he presented the love of God in an understandable way, Anthony had trouble getting the people to listen to him.
St. Francis, the founder of the Franciscans, heard about Anthony’s humble approach to theology and asked him to teach the other friars. Anthony once again followed this new path that was asked of him.
Anthony was a wise teacher and, as his fame grew, became a sought after preacher, once even preaching in front of the Pope. Anthony eventually went to teach in Padua where many students came to study.
Anthony was known for his preaching which was able to be understood by every man, even those without any knowledge of theology.
Anthony has been declared a Doctor of the Church for how he shared the faith with many who would not have heard or understood it otherwise.