However, inspired by the martyrdom of Franciscan friars who were preaching in Morocco, Anthony joined the Franciscan Order. He traveled to Morocco to preach the Gospel but fell ill and was forced to return to Portugal. On his journey home, his ship was blown off course and landed in Sicily.
From there, Anthony made his way to Assisi, where he attended a gathering of Franciscans and met Saint Francis of Assisi himself. He then traveled to Bologna, Italy, where he became known for his powerful preaching and profound knowledge of Scripture.
Saint Anthony's reputation as a gifted preacher spread rapidly, and he was sent throughout Italy to preach to the people. He was also known for his miracles, including the ability to heal the sick and to convert sinners.
One of the most famous stories about Saint Anthony is the legend of the lost book. It is said that Anthony had a book of psalms that was very important to him. One day, a novice who had decided to leave the Franciscan Order stole the book and left. Saint Anthony prayed for the book to be returned, and the thief was overcome with guilt and brought it back.
Saint Anthony is also known as the patron saint of lost items because of this story. Many people pray to him when they have lost something important and often report that their lost items are miraculously found.
Saint Anthony died on June 13, 1231, at the young age of 36. He was canonized as a saint by Pope Gregory IX less than a year later. Today, Saint Anthony is venerated as one of the most beloved saints in the Catholic Church and is honored for his humility, piety, and devotion to God.
Prayer: O Saint Anthony, patron of the lost and finder of the missing, we humbly ask for your intercession. Help us in our times of need, especially when we have lost something dear to us. Guide us with your wisdom and inspire us with your devotion to God. Saint Anthony, pray for us. Amen.
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