John "leapt for joy" in his mother's womb when Mary visited, pregnant with Jesus. Thirty years later, on the banks of the Jordan River, John proclaimed the coming of the Messiah to huge crowds. John wore camel hair clothes with a leather belt, and ate locusts and wild honey. But what really drew people was the prophet's exciting message: Repent, for the kingdom of Heaven is at hand!

Feast Day: June 24

Patronage: Baptism, Conversion, French Canada, Puerto Rico, Repentance