Remembrance

Today is the Feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist (transferred). Somehow, it seems appropriate on this day to remember that, as Mark reminded me this evening, "Kill the Messenger" is still common practice-- and that we are still in need of repentance.

Almighty God, by whose providence your servant John the Baptist was wonderfully born, and sent to prepare the way of your Son our Savior by preaching repentance: Make us so to follow his teaching and holy life, that we may truly repent according to his preaching; and, following his example, constantly seek the truth, boldly rebuke vice, and patiently suffer for the truth’s sake; through Jesus Christ your son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.