Top photo shows the St. Anthony of Padua display that was set up in St. Joseph Church, Toms River, where the parish hosted a feast day celebration. Msgr. Thomas Gervasio, diocesan vicar general, shown far right, served as homilist for the Mass, and Father Alan Bridges, parish parochial vicar, was principal celebrant. Courtesy photo
A number of parishes around the Diocese held special celebrations June 13 to commemorate the Feast of St. Anthony of Padua, who is known as the patron saint of lost items, travelers and the poor.
Among the parishes hosting celebrations included St. Joseph, Toms River; Our Lady of the Angels, Trenton, and parishes that are named after the beloved Franciscan friar including: The Oratory Church of St. Anthony of Padua, Red Bank; Our Lady of Sorrows-St. Anthony, Hamilton, and St. Anthony of Padua, Hightstown. The feast day was observed with special Masses, novenas, processions and social gatherings that featured sweet treats.
In Toms River, as one example, the feast was observed with Mass offered in both Italian and English.
Before Mass, many participated in the cherished tradition of pinning offerings upon the statue of St. Anthony as a sign of prayer, thanksgiving, and devotion. The Mass was celebrated by Father Alan Bridges, parochial vicar of St. Joseph Parish, with Msgr. Thomas Gervasio, diocesan vicar general, serving as homilist. During Mass, Father Bridges blessed St. Anthony bread, which was distributed following the liturgy.
Following Mass, parishioners enjoyed sweets and fellowship in the Gathering Space.
In the Red Bank Oratory, a novena was held June 4-12. Forty Hours devotions began June 11 and ended June 13 .
On June 13, the actual feast day included a Mass and festival with a procession with the statue of St. Anthony carrying the Christ Child. A procession was held starting at St. James School, Red Bank, followed by Mass and a street festival.
