I first heard about St. Anthony in San Francisco, where I had a financial hardship and could not afford to treat an ongoing infection. Someone suggested I go to St. Anthony's medical center, which I did. I was given antibiotics for free, which stopped my infection for good. But as I was not Catholic, I didn't know the meaning of St. Anthony, so I forgot about it.
Recently, my car had a serious engine problem, and all the mechanics who looked at it said the car is as good as dead. I couldn't afford a new car. In desperation I prayed for help. The next day, when I looked in the phone book, I saw an ad for "Anthony's Engines." The mechanic, named Anthony, came up with a solution that I could afford. I cannot express how relieved I was.
After that time, it dawned on me that the name Anthony had often played a savior's role in my life, including a lawsuit in which an adjuster named Anthony took my case, which nobody had wanted, and won. I had never prayed to St. Anthony, but I feel I was helped by him. I believe he watches over all the lost.
Now that I am aware of St. Anthony's graciousness, I feel it is time to thank him for his ever generous help. Anyone can be helped by the intersession of good St. Anthony.
He is one of the great saints of the Catholic Church, and one of the beloved--even far beyond Catholics themselves. Untold numbers of people turn to him, still, when there is loss. And strangely--at least strangely in the usual ways of the world--those things often quickly turn up. And often they turn up in the most unexpected--even seemingly miraculous ways. Let the stories begin.
