Saint Hannibal Mary Di Francia's Devotion to Saint Anthony of Padua

(from Saint Hannibal Mary Di Francia's Writings, Vol. 34, page 133 as quoted in the Father’s Soul, Tusino, 1973, 367)

Life presents us with a gamut of experiences, some joyous, others challenging. These challenges are inherent to the human condition. Hardships and adversity, from financial difficulties and health issues to losing loved ones and personal conflicts, are inevitable facets of life. Simultaneously, the monotony and routine of daily life can often cast a shadow of dullness over our existence. The repetitive nature of work, mundane chores, or the familiarity of daily experiences may dim the vibrancy of life.

Furthermore, as social beings, we are woven into a web of interconnectivity, often dependent on others for emotional support, companionship, or practical help. This interdependence can sometimes feel burdensome or restrictive. Life also presents situations beyond our control, such as natural disasters, global pandemics, political unrest, or unpredictable personal events. These struggles echo our shared vulnerability and are universal reminders of our human limitations.

In these contexts, we consider Saint Hannibal Mary Di Francia’s reverence for Saint Anthony of Padua.

Saint Anthony, in the eyes of Saint Hannibal Mary, is not merely a saint but a potent intercessor who stirs even the most Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Immaculate Heart of Mary, and the Patriarch Saint Joseph. This spiritual bond is not just a part of Saint Hannibal Mary’s life but a pivotal force that shapes the spiritual and temporal dynamics of his entire religious institute. His intervention brought about significant improvements, granted unexpected graces, and lent lasting stability to the institute, rescuing it from years of hardship, struggle, and fruitless labor. Beyond the visible graces lie the virtues that made Saint Hannibal an exemplar for Catholics and a servant-leader with a preferential option for those who struggle in life, namely, spiritual fortitude, gratitude, humility, and trust in divine intercession. These virtues are vital to personal and spiritual development and can be nurtured by consecrated people and all Christian faithful.

Saint Hannibal Mary’s unyielding spiritual fortitude is a testament to the power of faith. Despite enduring years of exceptional want and toils, his faith was fulfilled through the intercession of Saint Anthony. This spiritual resilience lays a solid foundation for the journey of the entire institute and its members. Until today, every Rogationist community worldwide faces difficulties. Still, it always seeks the intercession of Saint Anthony integrated into their daily common prayers and offering votive Masses in honor of Saint Anthony every Tuesday.

Saint Hannibal Mary’s profound gratitude towards Saint Anthony signifies his deep appreciation for divine providence. This virtue is one that all Christians can cultivate, fostering a more positive mindset and increasing resilience in the face of adversity. Gratitude is essential for well-being in a consumeristic, shallow, and ‘disposable’ society.

Saint Hannibal Mary demonstrates remarkable humility in recognizing Saint Anthony’s role in improving the institute and granting unexpected graces. This humility fosters recognition of others’ contributions and nurtures an awareness of the interconnections of life. When a servant-leader practices humility, members of the community are empowered. Even if the members are more talented than the servant-leader, there is no reason to be insecure. Humility creates a healthy environment where everyone is appreciated and every member’s success is celebrated.

Saint Hannibal Mary’s trust in Saint Anthony's intercession speaks to his deep faith in divine intervention. This signifies a surrender of human struggles and anxieties to divine hands, a virtue the Christian faithful can foster to improve their spiritual journey. But it is also necessary to sustain the realization of a community’s vision and mission. As ideals transcend reality, trusting in God’s providence can help one take risks, just as Peter discovered that a mortal like him could also walk on water at Jesus’ bidding!

These virtues emerge as beacons of light in life’s journey, guiding our path amidst the tumults and tribulations. Spiritual fortitude offers resilience, enabling us to endure hardships and grow stronger amidst adversity. Gratitude fosters a positive mindset, transforming ordinary moments into extraordinary ones and imbuing life with joy and contentment. Humility, on the other hand, places us in the grand scheme of things, allowing us to acknowledge the interdependencies that mark our existence and recognize the contributions of others in our journey. Lastly, trust in divine intercession invites peace and surrender, releasing the burden of our human struggles into divine hands.

Each of these virtues is a powerful guide for any individual, irrespective of their spiritual or secular beliefs, paving the way for a balanced, fulfilling, and enriched life journey.

Saint Hannibal Mary and Saint Anthony of Padua, intercede for us!

Fr. Aurellana is a Filipino Rogationist Religious Priest.