Saint Anthony of Padua (15 August 1195 – 13 June 1231), also known as Anthony of Lisbon, was a Portuguese Catholic priest and friar of the Franciscan Order. St. Anthony was born in the year 1195 A. D. at Lisbon (Portugal) in a wealthy family where his father was a captain in the royal army. Noted by his contemporaries for his powerful preaching, expert knowledge of scripture, and undying love and devotion to the poor and the sick. He was only 36 years old when he died. He was one of the most quickly canonized saints in church history. He was proclaimed a Doctor of the Church on 16 January 1946.
At Padua, a magnificent basilica was built in his honor, his holy relics were entombed there in 1263 A. D. From the time of his death up to the present day, countless miracles have occurred through St. Anthony's intercession, so that he is known as the Wonder-Worker. He is also the patron saint of lost things.