St. John’s Day 2023: Every year on December 27, people around the world mark St. John’s Day. The “Feast of St. John” is another name for the day. The author of the fourth gospel and the book of “Revelation” is St. John. He frequently appears with other gospel writers like Matthew, Mark, and Luke, or seated across from Mary at the foot of the cross. The eagle is a symbol for the saint. In addition, he was featured in many Catholic tales, such as Filippino Lippi and the frescoes by Giotto in the Peruzzi Chapel at Santa Croce in Florence. In the Roman Catholic faith, he is a significant figure.
The History Of St John
The day of a saint’s death is typically observed as their feast day. The only two saints whose birthdays are commemorated instead are St. John and the Virgin Mary. In Europe, St. John the Baptist was honored on St. John’s Day. It could have been because the dates fell on ancient pagan holidays honoring the summer solstice. Countries including Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania commemorate the feast day today. People kindle bonfires in observance of the holiday. They also held the belief that ghosts roamed free on the summer solstice.
To stave off evil spirits and shield oneself from harm, bonfires were lit. Eventually, people also began to think that bonfires were a good method to keep dragons and witches at bay during the summer solstice. According to the “Gospel of Luke,” John the Baptist was the leader of the baptism effort at the Jordan River and a relative of Jesus. Theologians claim that John dipped Jesus into the river and baptized him there.
The prophecy of Jesus’ arrival, or the Messiah, is what has made St. John most famous. According to the “Gospel of Mark,” Herod jailed John for criticizing the king’s incestuous union. Because Herod married his niece—something that the Old Testament Law forbade—John denounced Herod for doing so. But the sad place of his death would be in Herod’s wife. The head of John the Baptist was brought to Herod’s wife on a dish upon her request.
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Methods of Celebrating St. John’s History
Religious events are held to commemorate St. John’s Day, which is occasionally confused with Midsummer celebrations in some nations. On this day, there are occasionally additional festivities like concerts and parades. Make sure to use the hashtag #StJohnsDay to promote the holiday on social media while you celebrate it.
Go to church.
Several churches observe St. John’s Day as a unique mass day. Enjoy a liturgy and visit the church on St. John’s Day. Honor the revered saint and ask for his graces.
Study up on his life.
Reading about St. John’s life is another way to commemorate his life. The life of St. John is well-recorded in history, and several theological books offer a thorough narrative of his life.
Engage in charitable work
Another way to honor St. John’s Day is through charitable endeavors. Find out what charitable endeavors your neighborhood church is engaged in, then collaborate with them. Donations to preferred non-profits are also accepted.
5 Facts About Christianity That Will Awe You
It’s the biggest religion in the world.
Christians make up about 2.4 billion people worldwide.
There are three primary Christian denominations.
They are Protestantism, Orthodoxy, and Catholicism.
The first book ever printed
In 1455, the Bible became the first book to be printed.
It is among the three religions of Abraham.
The two others are Islam and Judaism.
It is a religion of monotheism.
indicating that Christians only acknowledge one deity.
Why The History Of St John Is Important
It’s a special occasion.
St. John’s Day is one of only two feast days that are observed on the saint’s birthday; the other feast days are commemorated on the saint’s death day! This unique cause is what makes St. John’s Day even more special.
It’s an ancient tradition
St. John’s Day has seeped into ancient traditions. The festival which has been celebrated for more than a thousand years is a unique combination of ancient traditions and modern rituals.
A truly global celebration
St. John’s Day is celebrated across Europe and in many countries outside it. Since so many people celebrate the feast, it builds kinship among Christians and helps them feel like a part of a bigger community.
ST JOHN HISTORY DATES
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2023 | December 27 | Wednesday |
2024 | December 27 | Friday |
2025 | December 27 | Saturday |
2026 | December 27 | Sunday |
2027 | December 27 | Monday |