Laetitia

Anthony did not join the Franciscans so that for the end of the time he could be the one known for helping people find lost things.  He joined because of witness. He was originally an Augustinian canon, much against the desires of his wealthy family. As minister of hospitality, he encountered several traveling friars headed to Morrocco. So strong must their witness have been that when Anthony learned they had been martyred, he left to become a Franciscan.

He is often depicted sweetly and gently holding the Christ child in his arms. And while he most certainly held the Hope of the World in his heart at all times, he was known for the strength of preaching that cut through the moral problems of his day. His gentleness was the firm convinction of a resolute heart,  his sweetness the truth of witness bursting forth that his preaching could barely contain.

Today is Anthony’s feast day. And while we could just think of him as the saint who will help us with lost things, maybe we will want to peer more into the mystery of his life. We may find anew that the value of witness.

Sidenote: Saint Francis Church in NYC has been offering the Breadline Program in honor of St. Anthony for a long time. Started in 1929 as a way to help those suffering from the Depression, it continues today to feed those who wish to come to St. Francis Church’s doors to eat. Visit the Breadline’s web site for more information or to make a donation.