In Brazil, 105 years of solidarity inspired by Saint Anthony

"The poor are the treasure of the Church" (St Anthony)

During the month of June—traditionally dedicated to Saint Anthony—we highlight a wonderful mission led by the Franciscan Missionary Sisters of Our Lady in Brazil, a living testament to this great saint’s popularity and legacy among the most vulnerable.

Thank you to Sr. Lourdes for sharing this story.

The Church of St. Anthony and of the Souls in Itabaiana, Brazil, gratefully celebrates the 105th anniversary of the "Bread for the Poor" initiative. This charitable work began on August 15, 1919, through the efforts of sisters Idalina and Leonor Nunes; driven by love for their neighbor, they provided 13 baskets of essential supplies to 13 families. Since then, the initiative has grown and now assists 180 vulnerable families each month.

Before each distribution, we gather as a community to celebrate Holy Mass, reminding ourselves that, above all, we are nourished by the Bread of God’s Word and the Eucharist—the source and model of all acts of fraternity—and that only then do we receive material bread. In this way, we unite faith and service, prayer and solidarity.

We, the Franciscan Missionary Sisters of Our Lady—with the support of the parish priest, Father Paulo Lima, and the entire "Bread for the Poor" pastoral team—carry on this tradition of love inspired by our patron saint, Saint Anthony. We thank all the volunteers, donors, and families involved, and we pray that God grants us the strength and grace to persevere in this mission of serving those who are the most in need.

May the Lord always guide us in our generosity, and may Saint Anthony intercede for us.

Sister Lourdes