About Today for

July 5

Saint Anthony Zaccaria, Priest and Saint Elizabeth of Portugal

Optional Memorials

Saint Anthony Zaccaria was born in 1502 in Italy. Well-educated; he studied Greek, Latin, philosophy and medicine. His mother’s love for the poor inspired his own charisms; so, at age 26, Saint Anthony decided to change professions and enter the priesthood. As a man for the masses, Saint Anthony moved to the populous city of Milan and preached among the people. He pursued the Gospels simply and clearly and as such, incited a movement. The Clerics Regular of St. Paul, the Angelic Sisters of St. Paul, and the Laity of St. Paul were all founded under his initial leadership. Pope Benedict XVI, in a preface written about Saint Anthony wrote he was, “an authentic man of God… a true leader, able to convert others to good.”[1][2]

Saint Elizabeth of Portugal was a princess and queen in the 13th century, daughter to Pedro III; King of Aragon, and Constantia; granddaughter to Frederick II. Her upbringing led her to pious works including the daily recitation of the Office, fasting, and works of charity and mercy. When her husband, Denis; the King of Portugal, and her son went to war over the throne, Saint Elizabeth valiantly rode into battle between their armies to incite peace. A truce was formed and as such, Saint Elizabeth often bears the name ‘Peacemaker.’[3]

Written by Sarah Ciotti
[1] Catholicpedia: The Original Catholic Encyclopedia (1917) for iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch. s.v. “St. Antonio Maria Zaccaria.”
[2] Benjamin Mann, Church honors priest and founder St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria, Catholic News Agency, 2012.
[3] Catholicpedia: The Original Catholic Encyclopedia (1917) for iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch. s.v. “St. Elizabeth of Portugal.”
Note: Optional Memorials and Commemorations are optional celebrations and, at present, we do not include content specific to these special days. This “About Today” is provided so that you can celebrate these Saints as you worship Christ.