Discover the inspiring life, miracles, and powerful intercession of Saint Anthony of Padua. From his profound teachings to his miraculous deeds, learn why he remains one of the most beloved saints in the Catholic Church today.

Saint Anthony of Padua is celebrated for his powerful preaching and profound theological insights, as well as the miracles attributed to his intercession. One of the most extraordinary miracles associated with Saint Anthony is the story of how he raised a man from the dead to defend his father in court. This miracle showcases his compassion, commitment to justice, and remarkable spiritual power, including the divine phenomenon of bilocation.

The Context

During his time in Lisbon, the father of Saint Anthony, Don Martin de Buglione, found himself in a difficult situation. A murder had taken place near his house, and the body was thrown into his garden, leading to suspicion falling upon him. He was accused of the crime, thrown into prison, and faced a long and painful trial that could potentially end in his execution.

The Miracle

Meanwhile, Saint Anthony was in Padua, working tirelessly for the sake of God. While praying, Saint Anthony learned about his father’s dire situation. God allowed this accusation to happen to reveal and glorify His beloved child in his own homeland. Saint Anthony immediately sought permission from his superiors to leave the monastery for a few days. Once granted, he embarked on a journey to Lisbon, confident that he would arrive before his father’s death sentence was pronounced.

Along the way, he was suddenly transported to Lisbon—a miraculous favor from heaven that filled him with indescribable emotions. This phenomenon of bilocation allowed him to be present in two places at once, ensuring his timely arrival to save his father.

The Court Testimony

Upon arriving in Lisbon, Saint Anthony immediately went to the court and began defending his father’s case. The judges were impressed by his eloquence but still found it hard to believe that Don Martin was innocent. Undeterred, Saint Anthony prayed briefly and then went to the cemetery without permission. He ordered the body of the murdered man to be dug up. When the coffin was opened, he commanded the deceased to speak the truth.

In a miraculous display of divine power, the corpse sat up and declared that Don Martin de Buglione was not the murderer. The resurrected man asked for absolution and then peacefully laid back in the coffin. Saint Anthony vanished, leaving the judges and the crowd amazed, declaring it a miracle. Don Martin de Buglione was declared innocent and freed thanks to his son’s intervention.

Saint Anthony’s response, “I have come to protect the innocent, not to betray the guilty,” quickly became well-known among the judges. When asked about the true culprit, he did not reveal the identity, focusing instead on his mission to protect the innocent.

The Aftermath

After ensuring his father’s freedom, Saint Anthony miraculously returned to the monastery of Santa Maria dell’Arcella in Padua, after being away for only one day and two nights. This miraculous event became widely known, further cementing Saint Anthony’s reputation as a powerful intercessor and a defender of justice. The story spread throughout the region and beyond, inspiring many to seek Saint Anthony’s help in their own times of need.