Saint John the Baptist Painting

St John the Baptist is the patron saint of builders, tailors, printers, baptism, conversion to faith, people dealing with storms and their effects (like hail), and people who need healing from spasms or seizures.

Saint John the Baptist: The Voice of One Crying Out in the Wilderness

Saint John the Baptist was born to the priest Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth, who were both descendants of Aaron, the first high priest of Israel. According to the Gospel of Luke, an angel appeared to Zechariah while he was working in the temple and told him that his wife would bear a son who would prepare the way for the Lord. John was born six months before Jesus, and the two were closely linked in their missions and purpose.

The Message of Saint John the Baptist:

Saint John the Baptist's message was simple yet profound: "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." Clothed in animal hides and subsisting on a diet of locusts and honey, St. John the Baptist referred to himself as "the voice of one crying out in the wilderness." He called people to turn away from their sins and turn towards God, preparing themselves for the coming of the Messiah. He baptized many people in the Jordan River, and his message of repentance and humility inspired countless others to seek a closer relationship with God.

Saint John the Baptist's ministry began in earnest around 27 AD. He went around the Jordan River preaching repentance and performing baptisms as a symbol of the washing away of sins. His message was one of preparation and humility, urging people to get ready for the coming of the Messiah by turning away from sin and turning towards God. His ministry was so effective that he was recognized as a prophet for his prophetic message from God.

The Baptism of Jesus

One of the most famous moments in Saint John the Baptist's life was his baptism of Jesus Christ. According to the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, Jesus came to John to be baptized. Initially, John was reluctant to perform the act, feeling unworthy to baptize the Savior. However, Jesus insisted, and when he emerged from the water, the Holy Spirit descended upon him in the form of a dove, and God's voice was heard, declaring, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."

The Death of Saint John the Baptist

Saint John the Baptist's ministry came to a tragic end when King Herod Antipas ordered his execution. Herod was angered by John's criticism of his marriage to his brother's wife, Herodias. Herodias, seeking revenge, convinced her daughter Salome to request John's head on a platter as a reward for her graceful dance (an act that Herodias herself was said to have performed). Herod was reluctant to fulfill the request, but he feared losing face in front of his guests, so he ordered John's beheading.

The Legacy of Saint John the Baptist

Saint John the Baptist's legacy is profound. He was the last prophet of the Old Testament and the forerunner of the Messiah. His message of repentance, humility, and preparation is one that Christians continue to follow today. He is celebrated as a patron saint of baptism, spiritual conversion, and facing persecution. His feast day is June 24 and his martyrdom is remembered on August 29.

Saint John the Baptist was an extraordinary man whose life and legacy continue to inspire people today. His message of repentance, preparation, and humility, and his baptism of Jesus, are significant moments in Christian history. Though his life was cut tragically short, his influence has lasted for centuries, and he is a beloved figure and patron saint for many Christians worldwide. Saint John the Baptist cemented his place in history as the prophet who paved the way for Jesus to carry out His mission on earth.

20"H x 16"L x 2"W

Acrylic on wood