Saint John the Baptist is a major figure of Christianity in the New Testament. A prophet and preacher, he is best known for having baptized Jesus in the Jordan River. He called for conversion and announced the coming of the Messiah. A cousin of Jesus according to tradition, he lived an austere life in the desert. Arrested for denouncing King Herod's illegitimate marriage, he was beheaded on the latter's orders, thus becoming a martyr. The Church celebrates him as the forerunner of Christ.

