Saint John the Baptist

Saint John the Baptist: Saint John the Baptist was the son of Zechariah and Elizabeth, and the cousin of Jesus. He was filled with the Holy Spirit from his mother’s womb and lived as a prophet in the wilderness. He preached a message of repentance and baptized people in the Jordan River, preparing the way for the Messiah. He also baptized Jesus and recognized him as the Lamb of God. He was beheaded by Herod Antipas for denouncing his unlawful marriage. He is the patron saint of baptism, conversion, and prophets. His feast day is June 24 in the Western Church and January 7 in the Eastern Church.