The Nativity of St John the Baptist

Feast: 24 June

The Church usually observes the day of a saint’s death as his feast, because that day marks his entrance into heaven. To this rule there are two notable exceptions, the birthdays of Blessed Virgin Mary and of St John the Baptist, both born free of original sin (as John was cleansed of original sin in his mother’s womb).

St. Luke tells us in his Gospel that John was conceived in a miraculous manner and that his parents were Zachary and Elizabeth.

“I tell you, among those born of woman no one is greater than John…” Jesus said.

John’s purpose was to prepare the way for the Redeemer.