A story that never grows old

Fr. Livio Tonello, director

2026 is an important year for the Universal Association of St. Anthony, marking the beginning of a new year in the name of St. Anthony. Firstly, we commemorate the 80th anniversary of his proclamation as “Doctor of the Church”. On 16 January 1946, Pope Pius XII officially recognised him as a Doctor of the Church, although his reputation as a teacher dates back to the beginning of his religious life. St. Francis himself whose 800(th) anniversary of death occurs this year sent him to teach sacred scripture and theology to his brothers at the convent in Bologna. It was the fortunate circumstance of his first sermon in Forlì that brought him to the attention of the people. But above all, it was his profound knowledge of the Bible that enabled him to share the word at a time when there was not much education. Iconography depicting him with the Gospel in his hand reminds us of the charisma for which he is known. Alongside this event, we should also commemorate the anniversary of the foundation of our Association. For 140 years, it has promoted the devotion to the Saint and carried out charitable works in his name for the benefit…