Today (June 24) is the Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist. He is the only Saint whose birth the Church recognizes, and his is one of only three birthdays celebrate in the Liturgical Calendar. The others are the Nativities of Jesus Christ and of Our Lady.
Saint John the Baptist was chosen by God to prepare the way for Jesus' life on Earth and to defend the Judaic law. Even while in his mother’s womb, Saint John revealed himself as a prophet to the Messiah when he recognized Jesus inside of Mary.
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"There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world." (John 1:6-9) |
