St. Anthony of Padua is one of the most beloved saints in the Catholic Church. While many know him as the saint people pray to when they’ve lost something, he is also the patron saint of domestic animals, fishermen, and good harvests. These roles make him especially meaningful to people living in the countryside who rely on the land and water for their livelihood.
St. Anthony was born in Portugal in 1195. He became a priest and joined the Franciscan order. He was very intelligent and an excellent speaker, but he also had a deep love for the poor and those in need. Anthony lived simply, just like many farmers and rural workers. He walked among them as one of them. This connection made him close to rural people and their way of life.
For rural families, animals such as cows, goats, chickens, and sheep are essential. They provide milk, eggs, meat, and help with farming tasks. St. Anthony is known for protecting animals. Many people pray to him when their animals are sick or in danger.
It is common in some rural communities to bless animals on or near his feast day, June 13. These blessings are a way of thanking God for the animals and asking for their health and safety. St. Anthony reminds us that all animals are part of God’s creation and should be treated with care and kindness.
St. Anthony also cared about fishermen and their struggles. There is a famous story about him preaching in the town of Rimini. When the people refused to listen, he went to the sea and began preaching to the fish. Miraculously, the fish gathered and appeared to listen to him.
This story shows that all of creation can reflect God’s glory and respond to His word. It also reminds us that the work of fishermen is important and blessed. When waters are rough or fish are scarce, fishermen can pray to St. Anthony for help and protection.
Prayer to St. Anthony of Padua
I salute you, St. Anthony, lily of purity, ornament and glory of Christianity.
I salute you, great Saint, cherub of wisdom and seraph of divine love. I rejoice at the favors Our Lord has so liberally bestowed on you.
In humility and confidence I entreat you to help me, for I know that God has given you charity and compassion, as well as power.
I ask you, by the love you felt toward the Holy Infant Jesus as you held Him in your arms, to tell Him now of the favors I seek through your intercession. (Mention your petition.)
O glorious favorite of God, in humble reverence I petition you to grant me what I so urgently ask for, and I will make known your goodness and holiness, thereby to honor and glorify Him who has so greatly blessed you. Amen.
St. Anthony is also called upon by farmers hoping for a good harvest. Crops are vital for feeding families and communities. A bad harvest can be very difficult. That’s why many farmers ask for St. Anthony’s intercession during the growing season.
In some areas, farmers place a statue or image of St. Anthony in their fields. They pray for rain, protection from pests, and a healthy crop. St. Anthony reminds us that farming is not just hard work—it’s also a way to serve God and care for His creation.
St. Anthony has many lessons to teach those who live and work in rural areas:
- Care for Creation – He loved animals and nature. He reminds us to be good stewards of the earth and all living things.
- Trust in God – Life on the land and water can be uncertain. St. Anthony teaches us to trust God in both good and hard times.
- Value in Simple Work – Rural life can feel quiet and unnoticed, but St. Anthony shows that simple, faithful work is very important to God.
- Serve the Poor – He cared deeply for the poor and reminds us to help others, especially those in need in our own communities.
Even today, rural life has its challenges. Farms are becoming larger, and fewer people live in the countryside. Many families struggle to keep their land. But the example of St. Anthony gives hope. He reminds us that rural life matters. Raising animals, fishing, and growing food are essential for everyone.
St. Anthony is a faithful friend to those who live in rural places. His life shows that God is close to the land, the animals, the rivers, and the fields.
St. Anthony of Padua is much more than the saint of lost things. He is a true helper and guide for those who care for animals, fish the waters, and grow food from the earth. His prayers and love remain with all who work the land and provide for their families and communities.
On his feast day, and every day, we can turn to him for strength, peace, and hope. May St. Anthony always walk beside us.
