John the Baptist: Saint for Baptism

John the Baptist was a great prophet who lived a long time ago. Before John was born, the angel Gabriel proclaimed that God had a special mission for him.

When John grew up, he preached that the Messiah was coming and people should get ready. At the Jordan River he baptized those who wished to find new life in Jesus. He came to be known as John the Baptist. One day, Jesus came to John and asked to be baptized too. The story of John teaches us how the sacrament of Baptism gives us the gifts of God's grace, life, and love. He is the patron (June 24) of the sacrament of Baptism and of converts.

Saints are real-life heroes of faith who inspire us by their virtues to become more like Christ. In the Saints and Me series, these beautifully illustrated early-reader books tell the real stories of saints that come to life and connect with today's children aged 4 to 9.

Jeff Albrecht has illustrated for Disney, Warner Bros., Marvel, DC Comics, and other entertainment companies. His animation has been seen on Cartoon Network. His Christian illustration credits include Master Books (A is for Adam, N is for Noah) and Living Faith Kids. He enjoys working in different styles from his studio in the St. Louis area.