Saint John the Baptist

Priest, Prophet, and Martyr

By: Fr. Sebastian Walshe O. Praem.

Narrated by: Kevin O'Brien

“There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world (John 1:6-9).

This world into which St. John was born was dark on all sides, and yet John was not overcome by the darkness. St. John was instead a shining lamp which dispelled the darkness and began to reform a world that had been deformed by sin.

Saint John the Baptist: Priest, Prophet, and Martyr shows how, through Divine Providence, one man was uniquely destined to pave the way for the coming of Christ. In a world steeped in darkness, St. John emerged as a beacon of light, challenging the Pharisees and Sadducees and pointing those around him to “make straight the way of the Lord.”

Unlike political or economic leaders, John sought no earthly power or wealth. Instead, he lived a life of simplicity and profound spiritual strength, guiding people to God through the desert, away from the corruption of the world. In a land dominated by Roman rule and religious tension, St. John’s unwavering faith and courage brought hope to a people yearning for salvation. Explore how this humble prophet became a spiritual epicenter, preparing the way for the Messiah and transforming a world in desperate need of redemption.

©2025 Norbertine Fathers of Orange, Inc (P)2025 TAN Books

Excellent

This book was excellent. Sometimes we can forget what a revolutionary and subversive character Saint John the Baptist was. He was an example of extreme action and commitment to God’s will. This book helped me understand more nuance about the man.