Saint Anthony Mary Zaccaria (1502–1539) was born in Cremona, Italy, trained as a physician, and later became a priest devoted to renewing Christian life. He founded the Barnabites, the Clerics Regular of Saint Paul, and helped spread the Forty Hours devotion to the Blessed Sacrament. Worn out by his tireless labors, he died at only thirty-six years old.
Anthony began by healing bodies and ended by caring for souls, showing that every gift we have can be turned toward love of God and neighbor. Though his life was short, he spent it fully, trusting that its worth was measured in love rather than years. His example is a comfort when a life we cherish seems far too brief.
Saint Anthony Mary Zaccaria, who gave your short life wholly to Christ, pray for us and for all we love, that our days, however many, may be full of His love. Amen.Enter today’s Mass → All saints →