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| Source: Catholic Tradition |
Today is the feast of St. Anthony of Padua, one of the most beloved and popular saints in Catholic history and my confirmation patron saint. Known as the "hammer of the heretics," St. Anthony is often portrayed holding the infant Jesus. This is attributed to a miracle in which baby Jesus appeared to St. Anthony who was praying before the Blessed Sacrament in a small chapel.
Hammer of Heretics
St. Anthony was a tremendous speaker and teacher of the faith. So much so, that in 1946 the Church declared him a Doctor of the Church because of his ability to simplify the teachings of faith for ordinary people. He earned the monicker of Hammer of Heretics by putting these talents to great use in refuting heresy. While he was in Rimini, Italy, Anthony found the hearts of its citizens hardened by heresy; they would not listen to his preaching. Instead, he chose to preach at the banks of the sea to the fish. Schools of fish rose to surface to hear his preaching. The people of Rimini were moved to conversion by this miracle.
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| By Jason Bach |
Today, he is often invoked as the patron of lost items. This devotion most likely originated as a result of story that holds that when Anthony was a teacher, he had a book of psalms that contained many of his notes. A novice who had determined to leave the order, stole the book and left. St. Anthony prayed for its return. Later the novice returned the book and re-entered the religious community. Anthony is also patron of a number of other causes, including faith in the Blessed Sacrament.
Back in the day, people preparing for confirmation were encouraged to take a saint name. That saint would become that person's patron saint. I wrote a post last year in which I make the case for each of us having three patron saints. From what I can tell from reading some of the Catholic forums not many parishes are encouraging this practice of taking on a saint's name for confirmation. I want to encourage you to consider joining me in revitalizing this pious practice. We can all use an additional saint praying for us.
Finally, I want to take this opportunity to share a family tradition with you. A few years back we began to celebrate Baptism Days as Re-Birthdays. Additionally, we now celebrate Patron Saint Days. We don't do anything too extravagant. Last night, Stacey and I went out to dinner to celebrate the occasion. If you have children, you can make a special dessert and share stories about the particular saint. You might even join together in reciting a prayer associated with that saint. It's a nice way to bring attention to the liturgy, nurture devotion to the saint and to just have an excuse to celebrate.
