CELEBRATE THE FEAST OF ST ANTHONY ON SATURDAY, JUNE 13 AT THE 4:30 MASS

Saint Anthony of Padua

St. Anthony of Padua is one of the Catholic Church’s most popular saints. Saint Anthony of Padua, patron saint of lost and stolen articles, was a powerful Franciscan preacher and teacher. He’s typically portrayed holding the child Jesus—or a lily—or a book—or all three—in his arms. St. Anthony lived a short life of only 36 years.

St. Anthony Bread is a term used for offerings made in thanksgiving to God for blessings received through the prayers of St. Anthony.  Different legends or stories account for the donation of what is called St. Anthony Bread. By at least one account this goes back to 1263, when it is said a child drowned near the Basilica of St. Anthony which was still being built. His mother promised that if the child was restored to her she would give for the poor an amount of corn equal to the child’s weight. Her prayer and promise were rewarded with the boy’s return to life. In some places parents make a gift for the poor after placing a newborn child under the protection of St. Anthony. It is still the practice in some churches to bless small loaves of bread on the feast of St. Anthony and give them to those who want them.

In keeping with the tradition of St. Anthony Bread, our celebrant, Msgr Robert Golombek, will bless bread, which will be distributed following Mass.

We hope you will join us!