Gospel Reflections | The Passion of Saint John the Baptist (Mk 6:17-29)

Today the Universal Church celebrates the Memorial of the Passion of St. John the Baptist. In the sixth chapter of Mark's Gospel we encounter John the Baptist, martyr and bold witness to truth and life. As we read in today's Magnificat, "John put his trust in the Word of God he had been sent to preach, and not in the princes, whom he offended by his commitment to the truth. He defeated the power of evil not by violence but by his self-surrender to God's will (Magnificat, Aug 29, 2020; http://www.magnificat.net). For more about this great saint, and for a reflection on today's Gospel reading, please click on the image. Peace be with you!

Saints Alive! | The Solemnity of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist

Each June, the Church celebrates the birthday of John the Baptist because "John surpasses all the prophets, of whom he is the last" (CCC 523). John the Baptist "is the Lord's immediate precursor or forerunner, sent to prepare his way," who "inaugurates the Gospel... from his mother's womb" (CCC 523). It was John the Baptist whom God sent to prepare His people for the coming of the Messiah. For more about this great saint, please click on the image. Peace be with you!