Solemnity of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist

What is a solemnity anyway?

During the Catholic Church's Liturgical Year, several days are given special attention, known as "Feasts" or "Solemnities." Solemnities hold the highest importance (ex. Christmas, Easter), while Feasts are of secondary importance (ex. feasts of the apostles or Holy Angels). Recognizing these distinctions helps in appreciating the significance of various celebrations within the Catholic liturgical year. Since the 4th century, Saint John the Baptist is the only person, besides the Virgin Mary (celebrated on September 8), whose birth is commemorated by the Church with a solemn feast.

In the 4th century, the Church established December 25 as the date for Jesus' birth, coinciding with the winter solstice. To stay true to the Gospel narrative, John the Baptist's birth was set six months prior, on June 24, aligning with the summer solstice when the days start to shorten. The Church Fathers interpreted this as a symbolic affirmation of John's statement about Jesus: “He must increase; I must decrease.”

A fascinating detail to ponder, although not explicitly recorded in the Bible or the CCC, is that the Church Fathers agreed that John was purified from original sin even before birth. The Archangel Gabriel had said that John would be filled with the Holy Spirit even from his mother’s womb, and at the moment that John heard the voice of Mary while still in utero, he leapt in recognition the Savior's presence. Even though he was conceived with original sin, it is believed that he was born in a state of grace.

Psalm 139 was read as part of today's sacrifice of the mass, which is a strong scriptural reminder that God has created each of us for a unique purpose in His salvation history. Let us decrease so that Jesus may increase in our lives and in the world around us. Celebrate St. John the Baptist's birthday today with some Keebler grasshopper cookies (since they don't make locust cookies lol) and bless your family with holy water in remembrance of your baptismal promises.

St. John the Baptist, pray for us!