Learning to be Quick to Listen

Born Fernando Martins de Bulhões in Lisbon, Portugal, in 1195, Saint Anthony of Padua initially joined the Augustinian Canons Regular, immersing himself in prayer and Scripture. His quiet scholarly life took a dramatic turn when the bodies of five Franciscan martyrs , slain for preaching to Muslims in Morocco, were brought to his monastery. Deeply moved, Fernando felt a burning desire to emulate their sacrifice and joined the newly formed Franciscan order, taking the name Anthony. He immediately set sail for Morocco, hoping to preach the Gospel and achieve martyrdom. However, a severe illness forced his return journey, and a storm providentially redirected his ship to Sicily. This unexpected detour led him to the famed Pentecost "Chapter of Mats" in Assisi, where he likely met St. Francis himself. Unbeknownst to his new brothers, Anthony possessed a brilliant intellect and profound scriptural knowledge that would soon be revealed. Anthony's hidden talents came to ligh...

Saint Anthony of Padua, though often associated with finding lost articles, was primarily known in his lifetime as a powerful and eloquent preacher. Originally a Canon Regular of St. Augustine, he was inspired to join the newly formed Franciscan order after witnessing the martyrdom of the first Franciscan missionaries in Morocco. His conversion to the mendicant life under St. Francis of Assisi transformed him, deepening his commitment to poverty, humility, and evangelical preaching. Gifted with profound theological knowledge and a captivating speaking style, he traveled across Italy and France, drawing immense crowds with his clear and passionate sermons, converting many and combating heresy with his unwavering faith and intellectual rigor. Beyond his public ministry, St. Anthony was a mystic who enjoyed profound spiritual experiences, most notably a vision of the Infant Jesus. This intimate connection with the Christ Child is a hallmark of his iconography, often depicting him c...