St Anthony was born in Lisbon, Portugal in 1195 to a noble family.

His baptismal name was Ferdinand and he became an Augustinian monk at Coimbra, Portugal when he was 15.

He thrived on the monastic rhythm of life, but when he heard of the Franciscan Friars who were martyred in Marrakesh, Morrocco, he wanted to follow them to Martyrdom. 

He joined the Franciscans at St. Anthony Friary, Coimbra taking the name Anthony.  His plan for Martyrdom failed; ill health forced his return to Europe but the ship encountered a storm and was driven off course and he landed in Italy.  Assisi Friars and St Francis welcomed him to the ‘Chapter of Mats’ a great gathering.  Appointed to a small Friary, Anthony lived quietly until his preaching ability stunned his hearers.  Thereafter his life changed radically.  

In the 13th Century heresy was rife and Anthony was called to counteract it.  The persuasive power of his preaching restored faith and truth in Europe, especially Southern Italy and France.  Renowned as the ‘Hammer of Heretics’ he preached the truth positively, not ranting – but always starting with a greeting ‘Peace be with you’.  

Anthony’s concern was for the poor, the sick, the troubled and the oppressed. 

Anthony died at Arcella near Padua on 13th June 1231, aged 36 years. Pope Gregory IX made him a saint in May 1232 less than a year after his death.  Pope Pius X11 declared him a Doctor of the Church in 1946.