Early Life and Education
St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria was born on December 15, 1502, in Cremona, Italy, into a noble family. He lost his father at a young age and was raised by his pious mother, Antonia Pescaroli. Her devout influence instilled in him a strong Christian faith and a desire for service.
Anthony pursued his studies with great diligence, initially focusing on the humanities and philosophy in his hometown. He later attended the University of Padua, where he studied medicine, earning his doctorate at the age of 22. Despite his medical training, he felt a deeper calling to the priesthood.
Priestly Vocation and Early Ministry
After completing his theological studies, Anthony was ordained a priest in 1528. He returned to Cremona, where he was renowned for his preaching and pastoral care. His fervent homilies and dedication to the sacraments inspired many to deepen their faith.
Founding of the Barnabites
In 1530, Anthony moved to Milan, where he became a pivotal figure in the Catholic Reformation. Together with Count Ludovico Antonio, and Bartholomew Ferrari, he founded the Clerics Regular of St. Paul, commonly known as the Barnabites, in 1533. This new congregation was named after their primary church, St. Barnabas in Milan. The Barnabites aimed to reform the clergy and laity, emphasizing frequent reception of the sacraments, especially the Eucharist.
Religious Reforms and Contributions
St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria was a vigorous reformer. He promoted the Forty Hours Devotion, encouraging continuous prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. He also revived the practice of ringing church bells at 3 p.m. on Fridays to commemorate Christ’s death, a custom still observed today.
His efforts extended to the laity through the foundation of the Angelic Sisters of St. Paul, a female branch of his congregation dedicated to teaching and nursing. He also established the Laity of St. Paul, a group for laypeople committed to living a deeper Christian life through prayer and charitable works.
Spiritual Writings and Teachings
St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria was a profound spiritual writer. His letters and sermons reflect his deep love for Christ and his desire for the spiritual renewal of the Church. He emphasized the importance of personal holiness, regular confession, and active participation in the liturgy.
Death and Canonization
Exhausted by his relentless work and ascetic practices, St. Anthony fell ill and returned to Cremona. He died on July 5, 1539, at the age of 36, in the same room where he was born. His last words were an invocation of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria was canonized by Pope Leo XIII on May 27, 1897. His feast day is celebrated on July 5.
Legacy
St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria’s legacy endures through the continued work of the Barnabites, the Angelic Sisters, and the Laity of St. Paul. His life and teachings continue to inspire many to pursue a deeper commitment to Christ and His Church.
Key Themes and Reflections
- Reform and Renewal: St. Anthony’s life exemplifies the spirit of reform within the Church, emphasizing personal holiness and communal devotion.
- Eucharistic Devotion: His promotion of frequent reception of the Eucharist and the Forty Hours Devotion highlights the centrality of the Blessed Sacrament in Catholic spirituality.
- Lay Participation: By founding the Laity of St. Paul, he acknowledged the crucial role of laypeople in the life and mission of the Church.
Conclusion
St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria stands as a beacon of spiritual fervor and reform. His dedication to the Eucharist, the renewal of the clergy and laity, and his tireless apostolic work mark him as a significant figure in the Catholic Reformation. His life invites the faithful to a deeper engagement with the sacraments and a more profound commitment to living the Gospel.