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Saint Anthony: From bogeyman to folk hero – a life full of miracles
On June 13th, believers remember Saint Anthony of Padua, patron saint of seekers and miracle saints, in many pilgrimage sites.
Saint Anthony: From bogeyman to folk hero – a life full of miracles
Today, June 13, 2025, marks the 794th anniversary of the death of Saint Anthony of Padua. Every year, numerous believers make a pilgrimage to Padua, his last place of work, to celebrate this special date. The enthusiasm for the saint remains unbroken, and his life and work still captivate many people today. Schwäbische Post reports that Antonius was not popular with everyone during his lifetime. He played a crucial role in the poverty dispute within the Franciscan order, which earned him the displeasure of both parties.
Anthony was a mediator in a conflict that raised the question of whether Jesus Christ owned money or property. This led to him being perceived as a failed mediator and, among other things, as a “bogeyman” for the divided front. But this did not diminish his influence and popularity after his death, as he became one of the popular folk saints and took on numerous patronages, including for the poor, bakers, miners and travelers.
The legend of the saint
Born around 1195 in Lisbon, Portugal, Anthony came from a noble family and received an excellent religious education. In 1212 he joined the Augustinian canons before becoming a Franciscan in 1220 and taking the name Antonius. His life story is characterized by his tireless work as a preacher, who worked both in northern Italy and southern France. Heiligenlexikon highlights that he became legendary as a penitential preacher, especially during his sensational Lenten sermons in Padua, where up to 30,000 listeners gathered.
One of the most famous moments from his life is the sermon at the port of Rimini, where fish gathered around him. This anecdote shows not only his charismatic personality, but also his deep faith and ability to inspire people. His extraordinary oratorical talent contributed to Pope Gregory IX. described it as a “treasure chest of Holy Scripture,” which underlines its importance. Katholisch.de also reports that Antonio's influence remained noticeable long after his death.
Patron and miracle worker
Antonius is not only revered as the patron saint of many, but also as a saint for objects that were thought to be lost - a circumstance that earned him the nickname “Schlampertoni” in Bavaria. Believers pray to him to find their lost things, and his feast day is celebrated in many countries, often with celebratory weddings and parades. The Basilica of Sant'Antonio in Padua is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites, where his relics are kept in a magnificent golden reliquary.
In a world where things are often lost or lacking direction, Saint Anthony offers a source of comfort and hope. His universal messages and his commitment to those in need motivate many to continue to pay homage to him and trust in his intercession in these times.