FEAST DAY: August 29th
Cousin of Jesus Christ. Son of Zachary, a priest, and of Elizabeth, Mary’s Sister. As Zachary was in the Temple, an angel brought him news that Elizabeth would be with a child. Zachary doubted the announcement and was unable to speak until John’s birth and naming. (Luke 1:5-25 and Luke 1:57-56)
John was a prophet and began his ministry a few years leading up to Jesus’ public ministry. John wore a garment of camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey (Matthew 3:4). He preached a message of repentance to the people of Jerusalem, converting many and prepared the way for Jesus.
He baptized Jesus, after which he said “He must increase; I must decrease.” (John 3:30)