2007 St. Anthony's Appeal

Few organizations in this day and age offer help to all who seek assistance without question. Yet this continues to be a hallmark of Franciscan ministries such as our Breadline, for a very important reason. In the words of the great Franciscan teacher St. Anthony of Padua:

You can feel the outpouring of love for St. Anthony on his feast day. June 13th, here at St. Francis of Assist Church and in Franciscan churches throughout the world. It is a day when our space is  joyously filled to capacity with Masses held in Italian, French, Spanish and English to accommodate a diverse community of worshippers united by their reverence and faith,

A highlight of the day is the blessing and distribution of St. Anthony's Bread. The small round loaves symbolize the gift of this gentle saint's intercession.

"Seeking the light of St.  Anthony, wisdom and intercession, the devoted pray to him to help in finding lost things and lost faith."

Anthony taught that God does not divide His children into those who are worthy and unworthy of His love I will join with you to bring the Infinite compassion of Christ to people in need in honor of St. Anthony.

People of all races, ages, ethnicities and economic backgrounds are drawn to St. Anthony; his feast day brings our beautifully diverse community together in celebration.

They also call to our commitment to express our gratitude by sharing blessings with friends, especially those who are less fortunate. Eighty thousand loaves are given annually, testifying to the widespread feelings of devotion that St. Anthony inspires.

Of course St. Anthony's influence extends far beyond lone 13th, Every day we receive letters from people explaining how their lives were changed through prayer to him, perhaps restoring their faith and keeping them hopeful during a very difficult time, or simply helping them find something important Chat was lost. They tell us of happy endings; of prayers answered and miracles performed by the Wonder Worker of Padua.

By your loyal support, you respond to the challenge that St. Anthony set for us and your generosity allows the Franciscans to do the work St. Anthony did hundreds of years ago, I humbly ask. you to renew your commitment to help us create small miracles every day in the hearts of the poor and homeless who are fed on the St. Francis Breadline, Moreover, please help us to continue our mission to uplift the hearts and spirits of all who receive the sacraments. experience renewal at our Counseling Center and Adult Education Courses, and benefit from our many outreach programs. We commit ourselves to being the kind of compassionate presence St. Anthony spoke of, relevant to the needs of the people in the twenty-first century.

The Franciscans warmly invite you to our celebration of the Feast of St. Anthony, where we will remember your Special Intentions. If you are unable to attend in person, please join us in spirit as we remember this wonderful same!

Thank you for helping us bring the loving message of St. Anthony and St. Francis to life in a powerful way for so many in need.  You are always in our thoughts and prayers.

Gratefully,

Fr. Jerome Massimino, OFM
Pastor and Guardian

PS: Please don't forget to include your special intentions in the form below so that we may remember them in our prayers during the Feast of St. Anthony of Padua.

Whatever you can spare will make a difference in the lives of the people we serve not only on the St. Francis Breadline each day but also through the multitude of ministries we are able to offer with your assistance.