Thursday, June 24, 2010

St. John the Baptist (c.6-2 BC to c. 36)


"On Herod's birthday the daughter of Herodias danced for them and pleased Herod so much that he promised with an oath to give her whatever she asked. Prompted by her mother, she said, 'Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist.'" (Matthew 13:6-8)

If you've ever wondered why the medicinal herb used to treat depression is called St. John's wort, it's because the plant is in full bloom on June 24, St. John's feast day.
The Gospel of Luke says that the birth of St. John the Baptist was foretold to Zachariah (his father) by Gabriel the Archangel.
He was born in Judaea six months before his cousin, Jesus, to Zachariah and Elizabeth, who was beyond childbearing years. St. John the Baptist began his ministry at age 27. He baptized Jesus and converted many people.
What I find the most amazing thing about St. John the Baptist is that he stepped aside with his own career to let Jesus lead the way.
Salome made the above comment which ended St. John the Baptist's life c.36. He is the patron saint of French Canada.

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