Saint John the Baptist Icon

Born 5-6 BC to elderly parents, his mother, Elizabeth, unable to have children become pregnant at the same time as the Virgin Mary, the two women being cousins. At this time the King of the birthplace of Christ issued an order for all male children of a certain age to be killed. His mother took him to the desert and hid in a cave. He then became a prophet who preached about the final judgment. He emerged in the region of the Jordan River with his circle of disciples Jesus among them. St John would the baptize his circle preparing them for entry into heaven. He then went on to follow Jesus as the true son of God. This icon was created in the 17th century. Orthodox Church celebrates Synaxis Saint John the Baptist On Jan 7th. On June 23rd or 24th Saint John is commemorated by Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches. 19x15cm