Many people may not know that there is a patron saint of lost things. St. Anthony of Padua, also known as the “Finder of Lost Things,” is the patron saint of lost articles, lost people, and lost souls.
Who is St. Anthony of Padua?
St. Anthony of Padua was a Catholic priest and friar in the 13th century. He is known for his eloquent preaching and his devotion to the poor. He is also known for his miracles, which include finding lost articles and lost people.
Why is St. Anthony the Patron Saint of Lost Things?
St. Anthony is known as the patron saint of lost things because of a popular story in which a novice in his monastery lost a valuable book of psalms. The novice was worried that he would be punished for losing such a valuable item, so he turned to St. Anthony for help. St. Anthony prayed over the book, and it was found in a nearby fish market.
This story is said to have spread quickly, and soon people were coming to St. Anthony for help in finding lost items. It is said that he had a particular talent for finding lost things, and that many people turned to him for help.
How to Invoke St. Anthony’s Help
If you are looking for a lost item, you can invoke St. Anthony’s help by saying the following prayer:
“St. Anthony, St. Anthony, please come around. Something is lost and cannot be found.”
It is said that if you say this prayer, St. Anthony will help you find your lost item. It is also said that it is important to thank St. Anthony once you have found your item.
St. Anthony of Padua is the patron saint of lost things. He is known for his ability to find lost articles, lost people, and lost souls. If you are looking for a lost item, you can invoke his help by saying the prayer, “St. Anthony, St. Anthony, please come around. Something is lost and cannot be found.” Remember to thank him once you have found your lost item.
Additionally, it’s important to remember that St. Anthony’s help should not be relied upon as a replacement for one’s own efforts in finding a lost item. Rather, it’s best to use the prayer as a way to ask for guidance and a sign to help lead you to the lost item.
Another way to invoke St. Anthony’s help is by lighting a candle in his honor. Many people light a candle for St. Anthony and place it near the lost item as a way to ask for his help in finding it.
Another way to honor St. Anthony is by visiting a church or shrine dedicated to him. One of the most famous shrines dedicated to St. Anthony is in the city of Padua, Italy, where he is buried. Visitors can see his tomb and also see the many ex-votos, which are offerings made by people who have received help from St. Anthony.
In addition to being the patron saint of lost things, St. Anthony is also the patron saint of travelers, sailors, and the poor. He is often invoked for protection and guidance on journeys, as well as for help in finding lost loved ones.
In conclusion, St. Anthony of Padua is a beloved and powerful saint who is known for his ability to help people find lost items. Whether you are looking for a lost item or a lost loved one, you can invoke his help by saying the prayer, lighting a candle in his honor, or visiting a church or shrine dedicated to him. Remember to thank him once you have found what you were looking for.