Born / Died: c. first century 

Nationality: Roman citizen of Jewish ancestry

Attributes: camel-skin robe, cross, lamb, scroll with words “Ecce Agnus Dei,” water, scallop shell

Patronage: builders, tailors, printers, baptism, conversion, those affected by adverse weather, those suffering from seizures, Puerto Rico, Jordan, Quebec  

Canonization: Pre-congregation 

Today the Church celebrates the memorial of the Beheading of John the Baptist. John first proclaimed the coming of Christ while he was in his mother Elizabeth’s womb and continued his ministry of preaching repentance throughout his life.  

He was imprisoned by Herod after he condemned the ruler for living with his brother’s wife, Herodias.  

According to the Gospel of St. Mark (6:17-29), on Herod’s birthday, Herodias’ daughter, Salome, danced for the king and his court. Herod, pleased with her dancing, promised her anything up to half his kingdom. After consulting her mother, Salome asked for the head of John the Baptist on a platter. 

Herod was hesitant to acquiesce for fear of what John’s followers would do, but he knew he could not renege on his promise. He ordered the beheading of John the Baptist, who the Church now remembers not only for his holy life pointing to the Messiah, but also for his defense of the sanctity of marriage. 

St. John the Baptist, pray for us.