St. John the Baptist
Forerunner of the Messiah (1st century BC-c. 30), son of Zechariah and St. Elizabeth, kinsman of Jesus; preached repentance and a baptism of conversion in the Jordan valley, baptized Jesus at the Theophany, and was beheaded by Herod Antipas at Machaerus for denouncing Antipas's incestuous marriage. Two feasts (Birth June 24; Beheading August 29).
Life & Times
Born: 1st century BC · Died: c. 30 · From: Judea / Jordan Valley.
Patronage
St. John the Baptist is invoked as the patron of baptism, converts, tailors, jordan, lambs. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
“He must increase, but I must decrease.”— Gospel of John 3:30
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Devotional items honoring St. John the Baptist, from our Sancta Lumina collection and beyond.
About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. John the Baptist, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.