The Gift of St. Anthony’s Bread
Celebrate with us on June 13.
Join us on June 13 as we celebrate the Feast of St. Anthony—our patron saint—with Mass, Confessions, and the beloved tradition of blessing and sharing St. Anthony’s Bread.
It’s also our annual Day of Giving—an opportunity to support the ministries of St. Anthony Shrine that bring healing, hope, and dignity to thousands each year.
Our goal this year is to raise $50,000 to keep this mission going strong. Your gift, no matter the size, will help change lives in the heart of Boston.
Become a Shrine Ambassador
Want to make a greater impact? Become a Shrine Ambassador!
Create your own personal fundraising page, set a goal, and invite friends and family to support the Shrine in honor of St. Anthony.
It’s easy to get started, and your impact will be multiplied.
Give Early
You don’t have to wait until June 13! Give today in celebration of the Gift of St. Anthony’s Bread.
Blessed Bread. Shared with Love.
The Gift of St. Anthony’s Bread
The tradition of distributing bread in St. Anthony’s name dates back to the 13th century. One origin story tells of a grieving mother whose drowned child was brought back to life after she prayed to St. Anthony and promised to give bread to the poor equal to her child’s weight.
Since then, giving “St. Anthony’s Bread” has become a cherished act of devotion and charity, honoring St. Anthony’s legacy of compassion. On the Feast of St. Anthony, Franciscans around the world—including at 100 Arch Street—share blessed bread as a reminder to follow his example of generosity and faith.
Who Is St. Anthony?
St. Anthony of Padua, born in 1195 in Portugal, was a contemporary of St. Francis of Assisi and a man of deep faith and compassion. Originally an Augustinian, he was inspired to join the Franciscans after witnessing their courage and devotion. Though illness prevented him from reaching his mission in Morocco, a storm brought him to Sicily, and eventually to Assisi, where he embraced a life of preaching the Gospel with power and humility.
Anthony became known for his stirring sermons, acts of mercy, and unwavering call to justice and love. His life continues to inspire millions—and it is in his spirit that St. Anthony Shrine in Boston, founded in 1947, serves the spiritual and physical needs of all who come through its doors.