Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Health Vailankanni

The great forerunner of grace and messenger of truth, John the Baptist, Christ’s shining torch, Now becomes the preacher of eternal Light. The prophetic witness that he never ceased to show In his message, life, and all his mighty works, Is signed today by the blood of his martyrdom. He always went before his Lord: In birth declared his coming to the world; By his baptism of sinners in the Jordan He foretold the one by whom baptism would be instituted; And, by shedding his blood for him with love, John the Baptist also experienced beforehand The death of Christ our Savior, who gave life to the world. A cruel tyrant may well conceal him in a prison, bound with irons, Yet in Christ such chains could never bind a man Whose heart in freedom opens to the Kingdom. How could the darkness and torments of a dungeon dim Gain mastery over one who sees Christ’s glory And receives from him the Holy Spirit’s gifts? Willingly he gives his head to the executioner’s sword; How could he lose his head Whose Head is Christ? Happy is he who wins today his forerunner’s title By his departure from this world of ours. Today his death proclaims his testimony while living: Christ who comes and who now is here. Could hell hold fast the messenger who escapes it? The just, the prophets and the martyrs are full of joy As they go with him to meet the Savior. All surround John with their praises and their love And, with him, beg Christ to come at last to those who are his own O great forerunner of the Redeemer, he delays no longer Who sets you free from death for evermore. Led by your Lord, Enter into glory with the saints!

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Forerunner in death as in life

Saint Bede the Venerable (c.673-735)

Forerunner in death as in life

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