Saint Anthony the Abbot

Anthony was born around 251 in Egypt to Christian parents. When he was about twenty they died, and soon after he heard the Gospel at Mass: "If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor." He took the words as meant for him, provided for his younger sister and gave away his land, then went to live in solitude, first near his village and later deep in the desert.

There he battled temptations, prayed and worked with his hands, and disciples came to live near him, forming the first communities of monks. He twice went to Alexandria, to encourage Christians during persecution and later to support Saint Athanasius against the Arians. He died on January 17, 356, at the age of about 105. Athanasius's Life of Anthony spread his example throughout the Christian world.

In Spain, Mexico, Italy and much of Latin America, January 17 is the day for blessing animals: people bring dogs, cats, horses and farm animals, often decorated with ribbons, to church to be blessed. In Madrid the San Antón procession is famous, and in Italy and Spain bonfires are lit in his honor. He is shown with a pig and a T-shaped staff with a bell, and the Order of Saint Anthony cared for those suffering from "Saint Anthony's fire."