The Shrine of St. Anthony in Ellicott City, Maryland, USA, welcomed numerous faithful and pilgrims for two days of prayer, formation, fellowship and the celebration of the Eucharist in honor of the Feast of St. Anthony of Padua.
The festivities began on Friday, June 12, 2026, with Solemn Evening Prayer, featuring several friar-musicians and a reflection on St. Anthony. The evening concluded with an ice cream social, providing participants with an opportunity to gather in fellowship.
On Saturday, June 13, the Shrine offered a full program of activities for pilgrims and visitors. At 10:00 a.m. and again at 2:30 p.m., Mrs. Laura Kelly FANUCCI delivered two presentations for adults, while activities for children took place in the meeting rooms throughout the Shrine complex. Inspired by St. Anthony as the Patron of Lost Things, the presentations explored the themes of “Lost” and “Found.” Rather than focusing on material possessions, the speaker invited participants to reflect on the loss of faith, love and personal identity, drawing on the Gospel images of the lost sheep sought by the Good Shepherd and the father who runs to embrace his prodigal son.
Throughout the day, pilgrims also had the opportunity to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation, enjoy a picnic lunch on the Shrine grounds, and take a guided tour of the Shrine complex, which once served as the novitiate of the former Province of St. Anthony.
The principal Mass was celebrated at noon with the Shrine Director, Friar Gary JOHNSON, presiding. Approximately 600 faithful participated in the Mass, gathering inside and around the main marquee. According to road safety personnel, between 1,200 and 1,300 visitors came to the Shrine over the course of the day.
Friar David Francis BLOWEY, the Assistant General for the Conventual Franciscan Federation (CFF), participated in the celebrations during his visit to the United States and reported on the principal events that marked this year’s observance of the Feast of St. Anthony at the Shrine.
Friar David F. BLOWEY
