The Last of the Prophets

The memorial of Saint John the Baptist in the Latin Church has very ancient origins. Evidence of it can already be found in fifth century France and sixth century Rome, and is connected to the dedication of a church built in Sebaste, in Samaria, on the site believed to be the tomb of the Forerunner of Jesus.The feast is observed on August 29 and, according to the Roman Martyrology, this date corresponds to the second discovery of the head of Saint John the Baptist, which was later brought to Rome.