Friar Mario directs the Messenger of Saint Anthony, the Catholic international magazine published by the friars of the Basilica of Saint Anthony, Padua, Italy.

Padua, Italy
Joined December 2013
Saints Simon the Zealot and Jude Thaddeus were among Jesus’ twelve Apostles. Simon is remembered for his fervent faith, while Jude is revered as the patron saint of hopeless causes. Tradition holds that both preached the Gospel in Persia, where they suffered martyrdom.
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On the Feast of Saints Simon and Jude, Apostles, I’ll pray for you, your personal intentions, and world peace at St Anthony’s Tomb. I’ll remember you again this afternoon during the Holy Mass I’ll celebrate in the Basilica. Blessings to you and your loved ones from Padua! 🤗
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Before choosing His apostles, Jesus spent the night in prayer. He teaches us that every important decision should begin with listening to God. Prayer gives us wisdom, strengthens our faith, and prepares our hearts to bring His love and healing to others.
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Towards November 2nd- 4th reflection. We often confuse what’s truly important with minor annoyances. Life is short, and our loved ones won’t be here forever. Is it really worth ruining a day over things that don’t matter?
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On this Tuesday, a day especially dedicated to St Anthony, I'll pray for you, your personal intentions, and world peace at St Anthony's Tomb. I'll remember you again this afternoon during the Holy Mass I'll celebrate in the Basilica. Blessings from St Anthony's Basilica! 🤗
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God’s Kingdom begins in small, almost invisible ways. Like the mustard seed and the yeast, our simplest acts of kindness, love, and faith can bring extraordinary changes. Never underestimate the little good you do. God can make it grow beyond imagination.
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How long has it been since you gave a sincere compliment? We often take those around us for granted, forgetting how much a kind word can warm the soul. A simple “I’m proud of you” within the family can bring immense joy—and it costs us nothing. So let’s say it to those we love!
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St Alfred the Great (849–899) was King of Wessex, England. A courageous ruler and devoted Christian, he defended his people against Viking invasions, promoted education, strengthened the Church, and encouraged justice and mercy. He is remembered for his wisdom and faith.
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On the Feast Day of St Alfred the Great, I’ll pray for you, your personal intentions, and world peace at St Anthony’s Tomb. I’ll remember you again this afternoon during the Holy Mass I’ll celebrate in the Basilica. Have a wonderful week! Blessings from St Anthony’s Basilica! 🤗
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Jesus’ compassion is greater than any rule or tradition. He sees a woman bent down by suffering and restores her dignity and freedom. True faith never turns away from human suffering. Love must always come first, for God’s mercy knows no boundaries.
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What will truly remain of us? 2nd day of our novena leading up to November 2. Today I commit to giving a little of my heart to those around me… while there’s still time!
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On this 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time, I’ll pray for you, your personal intentions, and world peace at Saint Anthony’s Tomb. I’ll remember you again this afternoon during the Holy Mass I’ll celebrate in the Basilica. May Saint Anthony watch over you and your loved ones 🤗
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The heart of our faith must be love: love for God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and love for our neighbor as ourselves. These two commandments cannot be separated. We show our love for God through kindness, compassion, forgiveness, and care for others.
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Towards November 2, together with our beloved departed. Remembering those we have loved through prayer helps us become better people… while there’s still time! Share with us - in the comments-  something beautiful that your beloved departed taught you for your life.
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St. Anthony Mary Claret (1807–1870) was a Spanish archbishop, missionary, and founder of the Claretians. He devoted his life to preaching, spreading the Gospel, and helping the poor. A tireless servant of God, he was canonized in 1950.
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On the Feast Day of St Anthony Mary Claret, I'll pray for you, your personal intentions, and world peace at St Anthony's Tomb. I'll remember you again during the Holy Mass I'll celebrate in the Basilica at 6pm.Have a great weekend.Blessings to you and your loved ones from Padua🤗
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Jesus reminds us that suffering is not a punishment for sin, but life is fragile and calls us to conversion. Like the patient gardener, God gives us time to bear fruit. His mercy is endless, but we must not waste the opportunities to change our hearts.
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St John of Capistrano (1386–1456) was an Italian Franciscan friar and renowned preacher. He traveled throughout Europe promoting repentance, peace, and religious renewal. Known for his courage and deep faith, he helped defend Belgrade against Ottoman forces in 1456.
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