St. Mark the Evangelist

Saint Mark the Evangelist Saint Mark wrote the Gospel according to Mark, the second in the New Testament.  He is also known as John Mark and his mother’s name was Mary.  They were both highly regarded members of the early Christian church.  His mother’s home in Jerusalem was often a meeting place for the early Christians. Saint Mark’s book of Gospels was written before 60 A.D. and was in Greek.  The book of Saint Mark records the life of Jesus Christ as described by St. Peter.

Saint Mark traveled with St. Paul and St. Barnabas to Cyprus, preaching the words of Jesus.  He also evangelized in Rome and established the Church in Alexandria. Saint Mark Martyred Many of the people in Alexandria resented Saint Mark for trying to convert them over from their pagan gods.  They put a rope around his neck and dragged him through the streets until he was dead.  Saint Mark’s martyrdom took place in 68 A.D. Saint Mark in Art Saint Mark is often pictured in works of art with a winged lion.  The winged lion was associated with Saint Mark because in St. Mark’s book of the Gospel, he speaks of the royal dignity of Jesus. Saint Mark Patron Saint The feast of Saint Mark is celebrated on April 25.  He is also the patron saint of barristers, notaries, lawyers, and Venice. Many Catholics who have Saint Mark as a patron saint wear a Saint Mark medal or a Saint Mark pendant, honoring this early Christian saint who knew Jesus first hand.  Wearing a Saint Mark necklace and praying for his intercession helps Christians to feel closer to Jesus and live a true Christian life.

St. Mark Prayer O God, grant we beseech You, That we may always profit by St. Mark’s teaching And be defended by his prayers. Amen. St. Mark, pray for us.

Saint Mark the Evangelist