Celebrating St. Anthony May Zaccaria on July 5.
St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria, a 16th-century Italian priest and reformer, was a driving force behind the Counter-Reformation. He founded the Barnabites, an order devoted to renewing the clergy and laity through fervent preaching, Eucharistic devotion, and spiritual discipline. Deeply committed to the reform of Christian life, he worked tirelessly to rekindle the faith of a Church drifting into complacency.
His efforts were not about novelty, but about reviving what had been lost—especially reverence for the Blessed Sacrament and the practice of frequent communion. He emphasized community, penance, and living a life shaped by the love of Christ crucified.
For Catholic professionals today, St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria offers a potent witness to interior renewal and external mission. In the busyness of meetings, deadlines, and responsibilities, it is easy to drift into mediocrity. Zaccaria reminds us that faith cannot be compartmentalized. It must shape every aspect of life, including our work.
He calls us to reform—not by pointing fingers—but by starting with our own hearts. He urges us to be bold in witness, gentle in correction, and tireless in our pursuit of holiness. His life proves that transformation is possible when we anchor ourselves in Christ.
May St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria inspire us to bring the fire of faith into our professions, challenging the status quo not with outrage, but with love, devotion, and the courage to live differently.
Now, here is a sacred image in his honor.