Augustine University, Ilara-Epe, joined Catholics around the world in celebrating the Feast of St. Anthony of Padua on Saturday, 13th June, 2026, during a solemn Holy Mass held at the Chapel of Mary, Mother of the Church.

The occasion also featured a special thanksgiving celebration in honour of the University's Registrar, Mrs. Margaret Aziba, whose birthday coincided with the feast day.

Delivering the homily, Rev. Musa Paul reflected on the virtues of love, faith, holiness, and devotion exemplified by the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Anthony of Padua. He emphasized that genuine love must begin with God, noting that individuals cannot give what they do not possess.

“If you don't have love, you cannot give what you don't have. You must first put God in your heart,” he said. Drawing lessons from the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary, he explained that her unwavering faith, prayerful disposition, and complete trust in God were evidence that her heart belonged entirely to Him.

Rev. Paul further observed that modern society is increasingly occupied by technology, social media, and the desire for validation, often at the expense of spiritual growth. He urged the congregation to emulate Mary's life of reflection and contemplation, stressing that a shallow life cannot be truly productive.

The Deacon also highlighted the significance of St. Anthony of Padua, whose feast the Church commemorates annually on June 13. According to him, the saint's exemplary life continues to proclaim the Word of God through holiness, humility, and service.

Saint Anthony of Padua remains one of the most revered saints within the Catholic Church. He was born in Lisbon, Portugal and was given the name Fernando Martins de Bulhões.

Father Anthony became a well-known and sought-after preacher, changing many lives with his humble, down-to-earth, yet theologically profound preaching.

The Feast of St. Anthony is observed every year on June 13 to honor the life and work of St. Anthony of Padua, who accomplished many things during his short time in this world as a priest. He was revered by his contemporaries and noted for his powerful preaching, vast knowledge of scripture, and undying love and devotion to the poor and the sick.