The friars began praying every day in a “perpetual novena” before the statue, a spot known today as “St. Anthony’s corner.” They dedicate their prayers to the petitions they receive from the faithful.

St. Anthony came into the world as “Fernando” in 1195 in Lisbon, Portugal of probably noble parents. He was a contemporary of St. Francis of Assisi and one of the first generation of Franciscans. He ...