Bangladesh Church marks Saint Anthony of Padua’s feast with great devotion

Bangladesh’s most popular Catholic pilgrimage was held on June 13 at the feast of Saint Anthony de Padua at Mohipara Parish in the northern part of the country.

With deep reverence and vibrant devotion, Catholics and others gathered in large numbers in the parish to celebrate the feast of Saint Anthony of Padua.

Located in the Diocese of Rajshahi, Mohipara Parish has become a spiritual beacon for countless Christians who revere Saint Anthony as a powerful intercessor and miracle worker.

Each year, this beloved saint’s feast draws thousands of pilgrims, making it one of the most significant annual religious events in the Bangladeshi Catholic calendar.

The nine-day novena leading up to the feast began on June 4, with prayers, devotional hymns, candle lighting, and Eucharistic celebrations offered in honor of the saint known for helping the faithful recover lost things—and more importantly, lost faith and purpose.

On the feast day, the Holy Mass was presided over by Bishop Gervas Rozario of the Rajshahi Diocese. He was joined by the vicar general with 16 priests and 20 nuns, with around 1,400 lay faithful attending in prayerful unity.

In his homily, Rozario emphasized the more profound meaning of devotion to Saint Anthony.

“We often pray to Saint Anthony for lost items, but how often do we pray to recover our lost souls?” he asked.

Quoting Scripture, he reminded the faithful, “What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul?” The bishop urged attendees to turn away from sin and material distractions and to follow Saint Anthony’s example of simplicity, humility, and holiness.

“Saint Anthony lived not for himself but to glorify God in even the smallest actions,” Rozario added. “He is truly pleased when we repent and return to the path of righteousness.”

A powerful testimony was shared by Lucky Murmu, a devoted follower of the saint, who claimed healing from a long-standing illness through the intercession of Saint Anthony. “I suffered for 17 years, and only through Saint Anthony’s mercy and prayer did I find healing,” she said, her voice filled with gratitude.

Saint Anthony of Padua, a 13th-century Portuguese Franciscan priest known for his eloquent preaching and deep care for the poor, is still encouraging believers across the world. Canonized just one year after he died in 1231, he is among the most beloved saints in the Catholic Church.

The feast concluded with thanks from Father Naresh Mardi, Assistant Parish Priest of Mohipara, who expressed deep appreciation to all clergy, nuns, volunteers, and pilgrims for their participation and support in making the celebration meaningful and memorable.