CATHOLIC FEAST DAY

(TLM at 7PM: San Secondo d’Asti)

Why we celebrate

We celebrate the birth of John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ who prepared the way for Jesus and called people to repentance.

Since when

This is one of the oldest feasts in the Church, celebrated since at least the 4th century, uniquely honoring a saint’s birth (along with Mary).

How to celebrate

• Attend Mass

• Reflect on repentance and conversion

• Read Luke 1 (his birth story)

• Pray for courage to proclaim Christ like John did

• Light candles or have a simple prayer meal of thanksgiving

Why his birth is special

Most saints are celebrated on the day they died (their “heavenly birthday”), but John the Baptist is one of the only saints whose birth is also celebrated—along with Jesus and Mary.

That’s because:

• He was sanctified before birth (Luke 1 shows him leaping in Elizabeth’s womb)

• His conception and birth are tied directly to God’s saving plan

• His mission begins even before he is born