Saint Anthony of Padua

We celebrate the memorial of Saint Anthony of Padua, a saint that is known by many. Yes, Saint Anthony is the one that people will pray to when they are looking for lost items. I know I have said it on many occasions when I have lost something, "Saint Anthony, help me"!!! True to form, Saint Anthony always comes through! As the Opening Collect stated, "Almighty ever-living God, who gave Saint Anthony of Padua to your people as an outstanding preacher and an intercessor in their need, grant that, with his assistance, as we follow the teachings of the Christian life, we may know your help in every trial" (Magnificat, 175). We have already established that Saint Anthony is a wonderful intercessor in our time of need. He is also an outstanding preacher and that is a great example for us. Take for example the gospel reading for this day, Matthew 5:20-26, Jesus says, "Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift." Reconciliation and Forgiveness is a message that we need to preach at all times, not just with words, but with our very lives. Saint Anthony did that in his own life. He left the Augustinian Order and joined Saint Francis as a Franciscan Friar. We know that Saint Francis made that statement known, "Preach the gospel at all times, use words if necessary." Practice what you preach!!! Saint Anthony has done that and now we need to do it in our present day. We have Saint Anthony to intercede for and guide us in all circumstances. Saint Anthony helps us find what is lost, but he does so much more for us as we live our lives, our faith, and the New Evangelization, which is a way of life. Saint Anthony of Padua, Pray for Us!!!