July 5th - St. Anthony Zaccaria By: Jeslyn Joyal

St. Anthony Zaccaria was born in 1502, in Cremona, Italy. His father died when St. Anthony was just a toddler, which left him to be raised by his mother, Antonia Pescorali. After studying medicine, he received his doctorate at the age of 22. He felt his calling to a spiritual life while working as a physician to the poor. After hard work, he was ordained 4 years later.
St. Anthony Zaccaria was a great priest and minister, and is known for establishing two congregations: The Society of Clerics of Saint Paul and the Angelics of Saint Paul. He helped reform morals for the faithful, and encouraged the apostolate and the laymen to work together. St. Anthony died on July 5, 1539. 
St. Anthony Zaccaria may have started life as a doctor for physical illnesses, but ended life helping people heal spiritual wounds. He is the patron saint of physicians.

INTERCESSORY PRAYER 
Saint Anthony Zaccaria, helper of the poor and the sick, you who devoted your life to our spiritual welfare, listen to my humble and hopeful prayer. Continue your work as doctor and priest by obtaining from God and healing from my physical and moral sickness, so that free from all evil and sin, I may love the LORD with joy, fulfill with fidelity my duties, work generously for the good of my brothers and sisters, and for my sanctification. Amen.