Franciscan Spirit Blog

St. Anthony of Padua

St. Anthony, Help Me Find…Beauty

St. Anthony of Padua, that Hammer of Heretics, serves as a model to me that I am to preach against any dualism within myself that blocks an openness to beauty.
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Saint Anthony Novena Day Nine: Model of Conversion

Was Anthony’s faith when he died in 1231 the same as when he became a Friar Minor in 1220? In many ways yes, but in other important ways no.
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Graphic of Novena to Saint Anthony

Saint Anthony Novena Day Eight: In Retirement

Anthony’s retirement as provincial minister lasted less than a year. He spent most of that time writing sermon notes for the feasts of major saints.
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Graphic that says "Novena to Saint Anthony"

Saint Anthony Novena Day Seven: Leader of Friars

Anthony became linked to the city of Padua although he did not live their permanently until he had completed his service as provincial minister.
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Saint Anthony Novena Day Six: The Preacher

Anthony is linked to finding lost objects. More importantly, many people have found anew a faith that previously seemed lifeless and useless.
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Saint Anthony Novena Day Five: The Teacher

Anthony’s knowledge of the Scriptures and his ability to apply them to daily life led to an assignment from Francis himself: Anthony should go to Bologna and teach Scripture to the young friars.
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Saint Anthony Novena Day Four: The Contemplative

Anthony had sought solitude as an Augustinian canon in Coimbra, but that city attracted many visitors.
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