13 Days Novena 2026

Today, on the 5th day of the Novena, we meet the slave Nuno, who tells us how Saint Anthony saved his life. In Morocco, upon seeing this man chained and starving, the Saint, in order to free him, gave the merchant the only valuable thing he possessed—a gold seal he had received as a gift—and sent him home to his family.
Let us pray: "Lord, through the intercession of Saint Anthony, free every person from what humiliates them and make us instruments of justice, dignity, and hope. Amen."

Today, on the 4th day of the Novena, we meet fr. Philip, who tells us about the beginning of Anthony’s great adventure. Wearing his new Franciscan habit and with a heart full of courage, he sets sail for Morocco, ready to do anything to bring the Word of God to those who do not yet know it.
Let us pray: "Lord, through the intercession of Saint Anthony, grant us a heart ready to follow you and to bring your love to the people we meet every day. Amen."

Today, on the 3rd day of the Novena, we hear the moving story of João, the gardener at the convent in Coimbra. The young Antonio, moved by the sacrifice of the first Franciscan martyrs, decides to become a Franciscan friar. His desire is to be a martyr.
Let us pray: "Lord, through the intercession of Saint Anthony, sustain those who suffer for the faith and grant us, too, a faithful and courageous heart to live the Gospel every day.Amen."

Today, on the 2nd day of the Novena, we meet Saint Anthony’s fencing master, who recounts a moving moment: when the young Fernando, destined to become a noble knight, decided to lay down his sword to follow the Lord. In his heart there was no longer room for war, but only for peace, a gift from God.
Let us pray: "Lord, through the intercession of Saint Anthony, make our hearts docile to your voice and able to trust in your love always. Amen."

Today, on the 1st day of the Novena, we return to Lisbon in 1195 to hear the tender recollection of Mary, the mother of little Fernando. Saint Anthony learned to pray by clasping the hands of his earthly mother and entrusting himself to Mary, his heavenly Mother.
Let us pray: "Lord, through the intercession of Saint Anthony, teach us to pray with hearts as simple as children’s, entrusting ourselves to You and to the tenderness of Your Mother and ours. Amen"

13 DAYS, 13 STORIES. A journey of faith.
From May 31 to June13, each day fr. Mario Conte will accompany you with a short video, in the journey towards the Feast of St. Anthony.
Through stories, miracles and moments of faith, we will discover together a St. Anthony close to our lives and still be able today to speak to our heart.
Enjoy the journey!