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Saint Mark, Evangelist

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Selected Mass Reading

First Reading — 1 Peter 5:5b-14

In like manner, ye young men, be subject to the ancients. And do you all insinuate humility one to another: for God resisteth the proud, but to the humble he giveth grace. Be you humbled therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in the time of visitation: Casting all your care upon him, for he hath care of you. Be sober and watch: because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, goeth about seeking whom he may devour. Whom resist ye, strong in faith: knowing that the same affliction befalls, your brethren who are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory in Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a little, will himself perfect you and confirm you and establish you. To him be glory and empire, for ever and ever. Amen. By Sylvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I think, I have written briefly: beseeching and testifying that this is the true grace of God, wherein you stand. The church that is in Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you. And so doth my son, Mark. Salute one another with a holy kiss. Grace be to all you who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Saints Memorialized Today

Mark the Evangelist
Mark the Evangelist Evangelist, Gospel writer, Missionary, Bishop 12–68

Saint Mark the Evangelist was born, according to ancient Christian tradition, in Cyrene in the Pentapolis of North Africa (in today’s Libya). Remembered as one of the Lord’s early disciples, he became a devoted coworker of the apostles, traveling in the service of the Gospel and, in time, serving as a companion and interpreter for Saint Peter. From Peter’s preaching, the Church has long held that Mark faithfully set down the Good News in the Gospel that bears his name, offering believers a vivid proclamation of Christ’s saving deeds. Tradition also tells that Mark journeyed with Barnabas to Cyprus and later brought the faith to Egypt, founding the Church of Alexandria and becoming its first bishop—an enduring fountain of Christian life in Africa. His courageous witness stirred opposition, and he is honored as a martyr, said to have died in Alexandria after suffering for the name of Jesus. Mark’s symbol is the winged lion, proclaiming the strength and majesty of the risen Lord. His feast day is April 25.