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| Beato Antonio da Amandola, ora pro nobis |
Among the Augustinians, January 28th is the Feast of Blessed Anthony of Amandola (17 January 1355—25 January 1450), Friar and Priest of the Augustinian Order. Renowned for his strict asceticism, devotion to the poor and apostolic zeal, many healing miracles have been attributed to his prayers.
Preaching for several years in Bari, Apulia, he eventually returned to his native Amandola in Le Marche. There, he expanded the old monastery and built a new church in memory of Saint Augustine.
Interred in the church after his death, his shrine and incorrupt body were desecrated in 1798 by revolutionary forces during the Napoleonic invasions of Italy.
In celebration, we’re posting a prayer to Blessed Anthony of Amandola composed by Archbishop Norberto Perini of Fermo. The accompanying photo comes courtesy of Father Eugene Carrella. The holy card is part of Father Carrella’s impressive collection of religious artifacts. Evviva Beato Antonio da Amandola!
Prayer to St. Blessed Anthony of Amandola
We come to You, O Lord, full of gratitude and filial confidence because You are rich in graces and ready to forgive. In the name of Blessed Anthony, Your faithful servant and our protector, we ask You to bless our country; to make families prosper by preserving prayer, peace, mutual love; to make young people docile, job-loving, honest; to give bread to the poor who suffer so much; to instill serenity and patience in the sick so that their pain becomes a means of purification for all; to comfort our elders; to assist the dying with Your grace so that, having overcome the last trials, they come to enjoy You in Your paradise. O Blessed Anthony, we all honour you and invoke your intercession with the Lord, so that He may allow us to always live your faith and to imitate your example made up of few words and many good works. Amen.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be
* Prayer courtesy of anastpaul.com
