A feast in Padua

Can you imagine the festival in the Northern Italian town of Padua today?  It's normally the site of a stream of pilgrims, but today as we celebrate the Memorial of their most famous inhabitant, the crowds will undoubtedly be increased, and not only for the Mass but also for the feast that will follow.

Saint Anthony wasn't born in Padua though.  This honor belongs to the city of Lisbon, Portugal.  Since he is thought to have begun is journey here on earth around the end of the twelfth century, it was probably sometime in the early part of the 13th that he joined the Canons Regular of Saint Augustine.  However, this was relatively short-lived because he eventually transferred (shortly after ordination to priesthood) to the Franciscan Friars Minor, intending to devote his life to spreading the faith among the African peoples.

He had his greatest success though, preaching in France and in Italy where he converted many heretics.  He was the first member of the Franciscan Order to teach theology to his brothers.  His sermons are notable for their learning and gentleness.  In recognition of this, the Church accorded him the title of Saint and Doctor of the Church following his death in 1231.

This morning, we will celebrate the funeral liturgy for Lionel Laframboise, one of the quiet men who have graced these walls and the life of this church for many years.  Officially he can't be referred to as a saint, but based on what I've heard, he (and a number of others who have been part of this community, and many who still are) would easily be ranked with those who are well on their way to their heavenly reward.