St Anthony of Padua

Anthony was born in Portugal and was named Fernand when he was born. His family was rich and his parents wanted Fernand to become an important man in their city, but Fernand only wanted to be a priest. After getting a really good education, Fernand joined the Augustinian friars. When he was 25 years old he was inspired to join the Franciscans because 5 Franciscan brothers had been martyred for the faith and Fernand also wanted to give his live for Jesus. When he became a brother he took the name Anthony. He became an amazing teacher of the faith and preached all over Italy and in France too. He was able to explain the faith in very simple words and so honestly that everyone who heard him could understand and came to believe in Jesus. Because of this gift in teaching the faith, the Church made him a Doctor of the Church. He died at a young age near Padua in Italy. Many people asked him to pray for them after he died and many miracles happened because of his intercession to Jesus.