Celebrate the Summer Saints: St. John the Baptist, St. Peter & Paul

As Summer begins, we celebrate the lives of some of the Church's most beloved saints. In late June, we commemorate the feasts of St. John the Baptist (June 24) and Sts. Peter and Paul (June 29). These three saints each played a pivotal role in the early days of Christianity, and their witness can inspire us to grow deeper in our own faith.

St. John the Baptist

St. John the Baptist is perhaps best known for his role as the forerunner of Christ. He bravely proclaimed the coming of the Messiah and called people to repentance and baptism. Even as a child in the womb, John recognized Jesus and leapt for joy at His presence. Throughout his ministry, John pointed others to Christ, saying "He must increase, but I must decrease" (John 3:30).

This summer, consider ways to honor St. John the Baptist. You could read the accounts of his life in the Gospels, pray the Litany of St. John the Baptist, or make a craft like a paper lantern to symbolize his role as a "burning and shining light" (John 5:35). Families might enjoy a special feast day meal featuring honey (a nod to John's diet in the wilderness) or grilled fish.

Sts. Peter and Paul

The Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul on June 29 commemorates the martyrdom of these two great apostles in Rome under the emperor Nero. Peter, the "rock" upon whom Christ built His Church, and Paul, the "apostle to the Gentiles," each played a vital role in the early days of Christianity.

To celebrate their feast, you could read about their lives and missionary journeys, pray for the Pope (the successor of St. Peter), or learn more about the symbols associated with them (the keys for St. Peter, the sword for St. Paul). Families might enjoy making a craft like St. Peter's boat or creating a collage of images related to the two saints.

No matter how you choose to honor these summer saints, may their witness inspire you to grow closer to Christ and to courageously share the Good News with others. St. John the Baptist, St. Peter, and St. Paul, pray for us!