Antônio Galvão de França came from the state of São Paolo in Brazil. First wishing to join the Jesuits, he was persuaded by his father to become a Franciscan and was ordained in 1762. In São Paolo he served as preacher, confessor and porter. He drew his spiritual strength from his constant adoration of the Eucharist. He brought peace to souls and families and dispensed charity to the poor and the sick. He was zealous, wise and prudent in the confessional. Anthony of Sant’Anna collaborated in the foundation of an order of sisters known as the Recollects of Our Lady of the Conception of Divine Providence. He served as guardian of St Francis Friary in São Paolo. In his old age he obtained permission to stay at the Recolhimento da Luz where he died. He was canonised in 2007 in São Paolo by Benedict XVI during a meeting of the Latin American Episcopal Conference, becoming the first Brazilian-born saint to be canonised.
First Reading: 1 Cor. 13: 4-13; Gospel: Mt. 19: 27-29
