Lessons found from the patron of the lost... 
Reflections on the readings for the Memorial of St. Anthony of Padua (June 13, 2019): 2 COR 3:15 – 4:1,3-6; PS 85:9,10,11-12,13-14; MT 5:20-26
MISSIO offers “Mission In Scripture” to nurture a missionary heart, providing reflections on the missionary themes in the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days
Today we celebrate the feast day of one of the world’s most popular saints, Anthony of Padua.
Portuguese by birth, he was drawn to the religious life at an early age. Originally of member of the Augustinian order, he was moved to become a Franciscan after being inspired by the death of several missionary friars who had been martyred in Morocco. Ill health kept him from going to the missions himself, and Anthony spent several years praying, reading the Bible and performing humble tasks at a hermitage. When his ability to preach with profound and compelling wisdom was discovered by his superiors, he was sent to share the Gospel across Italy and France. He was so admired by everyday people, that most of his sermons had to be given out of doors. With loving persuasion, Anthony encouraged everyone – rich or poor, man or woman – to follow Jesus and care for the well being of others, especially those in need. “If you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift” (Matthew 5:23-24).
St. Anthony of Padua was known for his simplicity of life and obedience to the will of God. He died on June 13, 1231, at 35 years of age. He is now widely appealed to as the patron of those who have suffered a loss.
Suggested missionary action: Since St. Anthony is the patron of lost things, we can ask him to help us find our way when we lose it, so that we may always follow in the footsteps of His beloved Lord and ours.
