St. Anthony of Padua

Anthony was born in Lisbon, Portugal, to a wealthy family. When he was a young man, God called him to give up his wealth to join the new Franciscan order. He was ordained a priest and was a great preacher. People loved to listen to him because of his sincerity and gentleness. Once while visiting a town to preach there, Anthony spent the night at a man’s home. The man was astonished when he walked into Anthony’s room. Anthony was praying and holding the child Jesus, who was surrounded with a heavenly light. This is why many images of St. Anthony show him with the child Jesus.