06/13/2026
June 13 – Feast of St. Anthony of Padua
Today we celebrate Sant’Antonio di Padova, one of the most beloved saints in Catholic tradition and especially cherished in Southern Italy and among Italian Americans. Known as the patron saint of lost things, St. Anthony is invoked by the faithful with the familiar words: “St. Anthony, St. Anthony, come around, something’s lost and can’t be found!” — a prayer passed down in many Catholic families for generations.
Born in Lisbon in 1195 and later joining the Franciscan Order, St. Anthony was renowned for his powerful preaching, deep knowledge of Scripture, and humble heart. He died at just 36 years old in Padua, Italy, where his tomb became a site of miracles and devotion.
This statue stands at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Red Bank, NJ. St. Anthony is so important to the Italian-American faithful and our heritage. This parish was founded in the early 1900s to serve the growing Italian immigrant community, the parish became a spiritual home where immigrants could worship in their native language, celebrate their feast days, and pass on cherished traditions.
As we honor St. Anthony today, we turn to his intercession with a prayer that countless Catholics have prayed in times of loss and uncertainty:
Unfailing Prayer to St. Anthony
O Holy St. Anthony, gentlest of Saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Encouraged by this thought, I implore you to obtain for me (mention your request).
O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms, and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Amen.
Sant’Antonio, prega per noi!
