The Gift of St. Anthony’s Bread

This year’s Feast of St. Anthony was a beautiful day of faith, community, and generosity—and we’re so grateful to everyone who made it so special.

With the help of our friars and volunteers, we shared over 1,000 pieces of Blessed Bread and welcomed hundreds more into the church for Mass and quiet moments of prayer at the statue of St. Anthony.

Thanks to the incredible support of our Shrine community, we raised over $56,000 through our Day of Giving to sustain the work of the Shrine. These gifts directly support the ministries that feed the hungry, accompany those in recovery, comfort the grieving, and keep the doors of 100 Arch Street open to all who seek peace and compassion.

Whether you visited in person, made a gift, started a fundraiser, or helped spread the word—thank you for being part of 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.

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.

You can still support the Shrine by becoming a Shrine Ambassador!

Create your own personal fundraising page, set a goal, and invite friends and family to support the Shrine in honor of whatever occasion you choose (a birthday, anniversary, running a race, etc.).

It’s easy to get started, and your impact will be multiplied.