Feature Article January 2008

St. Anthony was one of those people who seemed to converse with God from the time they were really small. Both of Anthony’s parents had died by the time Anthony was a young adult. He sold everything they owned and walked out into the quietest place he could think of: a grave in a cemetery in a desert. There, Anthony listened to God. And God must have talked because Anthony gained a great reputation as someone who knew the mind of God. People wanted to be near him, so they built tents surrounding Anthony’s graveyard. They listened to him. They watched him.

Soon, Christians in nearby cities began to be persecuted and arrested by those in authority who misunderstood them and feared them. Anthony left his cemetery in the desert and ministered to those who were in prison. Isn’t it amazing that Anthony was never arrested! He was left alone to minister those in prison.

Anthony lived this way for decades, giving great witness to how to listen to God. People said he was easily recognizable because his face always shone!

Anthony was over 100 years old when he died. He is the patron of farm animals and pets – he had many pets himself and was known for taking good care of his pets.

Why do you think Anthony wanted to find some place quiet?

Think of someone you like to be in the presence of. What qualities about this person do you suppose attract you?
 Why is it necessary for us to be silent at times when we pray?

How do you best listen to God?

How does God talk to us?