“Legend says that Szent Antal szobra holds the child Jesus. But why? The story goes that he held the child when people would not listen. It is a powerful image isn’t it?
Here stands Szent Antal szobra. It represents Saint Anthony. He is also known as Saint Anthony of Padua. This statue captures the saint as a young beardless Franciscan friar. He holds the child Jesus in his arms. The statue is a beautiful work by Sándor Gabay. It is found inside a church.
Let us take a closer look at Szent Antal szobra. You will see that he is the saint of the poor. The statue sits on an elevated platform. The platform has balustraded columns. It is placed at eye level near the entrance. You can find Szent Antal szobra on the side of the main nave near a side altar.
Notice the delicate fabric beneath the statue. It is adorned with flowers. Lilies stand out as Szent Antal’s attribute. Small marble plaques surround the statue. These are tokens of gratitude from those who received help.
Szent Antal szobra embodies a humble image. The Franciscan order wore wool clothes that were grey. Their ankle-length robe was called a korda. It included a hood and a circular collar. They often walked barefoot but sandals were allowed. These could be made of wood or leather.
The rope around his waist represents his vows. The three knots symbolize poverty, chastity and obedience. These are the core vows of the monastic life. Before Szent Antal szobra is a collection box. It is protected by a grid. People donate money here to help the poor. These are Szent Antal’s pennies.
The church provides a peaceful space. It is well-lit and quiet during the day. This allows for intimate prayer. Prayer benches invite reflection. The linden wood statue is 180 centimeters tall.
This church has a rich history. After Buda was freed from Turkish rule a small chapel was built. It was a votive chapel built due to the plague epidemics. It burned down. In 1795 construction began on a new parish church. The main feast of the church is on August 5. This is the feast of Our Lady of the Snows. The church’s name comes from this feast. Szent Antal szobra is a beautiful part of this church.
As you reflect on Szent Antal szobra remember its message. It shows compassion and devotion to the less fortunate. Consider leaving a small donation in the collection box. Your contribution will help those in need. The spirit of Szent Antal lives on through these acts of kindness.”