Today, June 13thgreat celebration in honor of Sant ‘Antonio.
Born in Lisbon in 1195 and belonging to the Franciscan order, Anthony personally met Saint Francis of Assisi, who wanted him as a theology teacher thanks to his communication skills and his profound knowledge.
He traveled widely and left a profound mark in Italy, especially in the North of the country.
He died in Padua in 1231, aged just 36, and was buried here.
Quickly canonized by Pope Gregory IX (in less than a year), he was proclaimed Doctor of the Church in 1946.
The cult of Saint Anthony spread rapidly throughout Europe: there are many relics scattered in churches and sanctuaries.
The point of reference remains the Basilica del Santo in Padua, a destination for pilgrimages and an architectural work of great artistic value.
If you frequent Basilicata in the period around the 13th, it is easy to come across parties and events dedicated to him.
About 13, that represents a significant number for this holiday.
In fact, the figure refers not only to the specific day on which the celebration falls, but even to the days of prayer that precede it and which make up the so-called “thirteen”.
Saint Anthony had one particular predilection for children.
Among the miracles he performed when he was alive, more than one concerns them.
This is why there is a tradition of placing children under the protection of the Saint from birth.
This custom is followed by that of making children wear the Franciscan habit on the occasion of celebrations in his honor, to thank him for the protection received and to spread this pious devotion to others.
They arose in his name numerous orphanages in which children without families have been able and can live in a climate of love and respect, supported in their psycho-physical growth and education.
To all the Antonios, Antoniettas and their derivatives, we wish a happy name-day.
