Icon of St. John The Forerunner and Baptist - 00STJB02

Feast Day/Commemorated: 

September 23rd – Conception of St. John
January 7th – Synaxis of St. John 
February 24th – 1st & 2nd Findings of the head of St. John
May 25th – 3rd Finding of the head of St. John
June 24th – Nativity of St. John
August 29th – Beheading of St. John

The Prophesied Birth and Early Life of Saint John the Baptist

Saint John the Baptist was born to the Prophet Zacharias and Elizabeth, a kinswoman of the Virgin Mary. He is reverently known as the "Forerunner" and the "Baptist." His title "Forerunner" stems from his divine role in preceding Christ, preparing humanity for Jesus's teaching and ministry through his message of repentance. According to Holy Tradition, John recognized Christ as the Messiah even while both were in their mothers' wombs; when the Virgin Mary visited her cousin Elizabeth, John is said to have leapt in Elizabeth's womb at their embrace, marking his earliest acknowledgment of Christ. Following his birth, John and his mother fled to the desert after his father, Zacharias, was martyred in the Temple. Consequently, John was raised in the wilderness, adopting an ascetic life from a young age, subsisting on plants and roots and wearing rough clothing.

Ministry of Repentance and Prophecy of Christ

As he matured, Saint John began his public ministry, baptizing people in the Jordan River and fervently preaching repentance. He consistently foretold the coming of someone greater than himself, who would baptize not merely with water, but with the Holy Spirit. John's unwavering commitment to speaking the Truth led him to openly criticize Herod's actions, which resulted in his imprisonment. His uncompromising stance on righteousness ultimately led to his martyrdom.

Martyrdom and Enduring Legacy

Saint John's life was tragically cut short due to a rash promise Herod made to his step-daughter, Herodias's daughter. Convinced by her mother, she asked for John's head on a platter. Consequently, John was beheaded in prison. The beheading of Saint John is commemorated as a strict fast day, reflecting the gravity of his death, yet it is also a joyous feast, celebrating his luminous example of piety, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to truth. His life continues to serve as an inspiration for monastics, martyrs, and all Christians, demonstrating profound devotion and courageous witness to Christ. As hymned, John is revered as "more venerable than the Prophets," having been granted to baptize the One they proclaimed, and announcing the good tidings of God's Incarnation even to those in Hades.

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