Fast, concise facts and information about Saint Anthony
The following provides fast and concise facts and information: - The patron of animals
- Born in 251 at Heracleus, Egypt
- Memorial Day / Feast Day: January 17th
- Date of Death: Saint Anthony died in 356
- Cause of Death: Natural causes
Who or what is Saint Anthony the patron saint of?
Saint Anthony is the patron of animals. Meanings, definition and origins - a patron is considered to be a defender of a specific group of people or of a nation. There is a patron for virtually every cause, profession or special interest. Prayers are considered more likely to be answered by asking a patron for intercession on their behalf. The Story and History of Saint Anthony
The story and history of Saint Anthony. When he was young he sold all of his possessions, gave them up for charity and joined a group of anchorites. He then spent many years alone in the dessert. His life inspired many followers when he returned who wanted to join him and emulate his life style. Saint Anthony was therefore the founder of monachism. St. Anthony is the patron and protector of animals, on account of his intense regard for all animals during his lifetime. Death of Saint Anthony
There are two categories of saints: martyrs and confessors. A Christian martyr is regarded as one who is put to death for his Christian faith or convictions. Confessors are people who died natural deaths. Date of Death: Saint Anthony died in 356. Cause of Death: natural causes. Why is Saint Anthony the patron of animals?
Why is Saint Anthony is the patron of animals? For his great regard for all animals during his lifetime How Saint Anthony is represented in Christian Art
It is helpful to be able to recognise Saint Anthony in paintings, stained glass windows, illuminated manuscripts, architecture and other forms of Christian art. The artistic representations reflect the life or death of saints, or an aspect of life with which the person is most closely associated. Saint Anthony is represented in Christian Art wearing a monk's habit and cowl. The crutch upon which he leans is given to him out of respect for his age; while the bell suspended from the crutch, or carried in his hand, indicates his power to exorcise evil spirits because he withstood so many demons and temptations. He is inseparably associated in Christian Art with a pig; not because he was ever a swineherd, nor, since by living in a cave, and feeding upon roots, he and the hogs had something in common; but rather for the reason that the hog is typical of the demon of gluttony and sensuality, which St. Anthony is supposed to have vanquished by the exercise of piety and the Divine assistance.
Feast Day of Saint Anthony
The Feast Day of Saint Anthony is January 17th. The origin of Feast Days: most saints have specially designated feast days and are associated with a specific day of the year and these are referred to as the saint's feast day. The feast days first arose from the very early Christian custom of the annual commemoration of martyrs on the dates of their deaths at the same time celebrating their birth into heaven. | 