St. Anton- Of the Past and Today “The Animal Protectors”

“Animals are such agreeable friends- they ask no questions; they pass no criticisms” (George Elliot).

Regardless of your view of pets, animals really are special treasures from the Lord. We are called to be stewards of creation, and so we must care for God’s creatures. At times, animals can sense our emotions and care for us as well. As Benjamin Franklin pointed out, “There are three faithful friends: an old wife, an old dog, and ready money.” Truly, a strong companionship can grow between a human and their dog, horse, or lizard.

The patron saint of these beloved furballs and scaled crawlers is San Antón. He was born in Egypt in the year 251AD. Around the age of twenty years old, he became a hermit and lived in a cave. He was particularly fond of animals and performed many miracles healing them. Stories often tell of him curing blind pigs, which is why he is usually depicted with a pig at his feet. 

 San Antón (la ermita de San San Antón, Casasimarro, Spain)

Today, many Spaniards celebrated the Feast of St. Anton by bringing their pets (dogs, cats, donkeys, lizards, etc.) to the church to be blessed. In Casasimarro, la ermita de San Antón, residents do this every year.

Last year I unfortunately did not see any animals, but I saw people visit the Chapel of St. Anton and pray. We were also given snacks of tostones (fried wheat kernels). Try making some this week/weekend to celebrate!

One reason St. Anton sticks out to me is because he shares the name with one of the best uncles this world has ever had: my Uncle Tony. Like San Antón, Anton (Tony) Sawicki possessed a servant’s heart. He always put his family first, and even though I didn’t get to visit often, he would greet me with the

Uncle Tony with his dog Fritz

I dearly miss those hugs and his smirky laugh. In November of 2020, Uncle Tony lost his battle to lung cancer. Despite his pain and sickness, he never let his family see his sufferings. He was always tough and ensured their needs were met. Just as St. Antón dedicated his life to God’s animals, Uncle Tony devoted all of his actions towards others.

Last spring, I even had the opportunity to light a candle for my uncle, right in front of the Anton Chapel in the Segovia Cathedral.  So many special wonders fill that city, but that specifically is my favorite spot.

La Catedral de Segovia (Segovia, Spain)

(Photographer Credit: Annaliisa Cordova)

The name Anton in Latin translates to “priceless.” This is such an accurate definition for my uncle. He was married to my Aunt Michelle for twenty-five years; an inspiring reflection of true love.

In honor of my Uncle Tony, and St. Anton, I hope you all will take this week to reflect on both the humans and pets in your life you love. I also encourage you to evaluate how you spend your time; where do your priorities lie? Do your actions reflect this? How do you impact others?  

Uncle Tony with his children: Brandon, Allyson, and Zachary

Uncle Tony with my Mom, brothers George and Nicholas, and me

As a dedication to Aunt Tony, and a gift to his family, read the following poem:

Article Sources from the History of San Antón:

https://fascinatingspain.com/spanish-culture-fascinating/spanish-culture/why-san-anton-defender-animals/

https://www.npr.org/2018/01/18/578800257/pet-blessing-in-spain#:~:text=Anton%20this%20week.-,He's%20known%20as%20the%20patron%20saint%20of%20animals%2C%20and%20in,patron%20saint%20of%20domestic%20animals.