Anthony Mary Zaccaria
Reforming priest whose Barnabite order renewed the Church through prayer and prophetic discipline.
Patronage
Roman Catholic Church, Diocese of Cremona, Barnabite order, sick people
Virtues & Traits
Biography
Anthony Mary Zaccaria (1502-1539) was an Italian priest and founder of the Barnabites (Clerics Regular of Saint Paul), a religious order dedicated to the reform and renewal of the Church. Born in Cremona, he studied medicine before pursuing priesthood, bringing healing compassion to his pastoral work. Zaccaria established his congregation to address corruption and laxity in the Church, emphasizing strict discipline, mystical prayer, and active apostolic ministry. He founded accompanying communities for women and lay associates, creating a comprehensive reform movement. Known for his prophetic preaching and miraculous healings, he confronted ecclesiastical abuses directly. Despite his short life, Zaccaria profoundly influenced Catholic reform before the Council of Trent. He died at 36, exhausted by his labors. His canonization in 1897 recognized his significant contribution to Church renewal and his model of combining contemplative spirituality with active reform.
Prayer
Prayer to St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria
O glorious Saint Anthony Mary Zaccaria, zealous apostle of the Eucharist and devoted reformer of the Church, we humbly beseech you to intercede for us before the throne of God. Grant us the grace to grow in love for the Blessed Sacrament and to serve the Church with unwavering faith and charity. Help us to follow your example of holiness and dedication to Christ's mission. Through your powerful intercession, obtain for us the strength to overcome our spiritual weaknesses and to advance in virtue. Saint Anthony Mary Zaccaria, pray for us. Amen.
Generated by Find My Saint for personal reflection. Not an official Church prayer.