Saint Mark: the apostle who wrote the first Gospel

The feast of Saint Mark is celebrated on 25 April. Saint Mark is an apostle of Jesus and evangelist, known for his devotion to Jesus and his contribution to the Bible. He is often invoked for spiritual guidance and wisdom. Saint Mark, guide for devotion to Jesus and study of the Bible, pray for us to be instruments of devotion to God and wisdom.

Who is Saint Mark?

His Story

Saint Mark was born in 12 AD and died in 68 AD. Saint Mark is an apostle and evangelist in the Christian tradition. He is considered to be the author of the second gospel of the New Testament, called the Gospel according to Saint Mark. He was a close companion of St. Peter and participated in the preaching of the Gospel in the Roman world.

His significance

St Mark is particularly associated with the Church of Alexandria in Egypt, where he founded one of the first Christian communities. He is considered the first bishop of Alexandria and is honoured as the patron saint of the city.

St. Mark is also associated with liturgy and music, as the book of liturgical songs called the "Gradual", used in the Catholic liturgy, is often attributed to him. He is celebrated on 25 April in the Catholic Church and by other Christian communities.

Celebration of the Feast of Saint Mark

Religious rituals

Mass: Catholics often celebrate a special mass to honour St Joseph, during which they pray for his protection and blessing.

Processions: some parishes hold processions to celebrate the feast of St Joseph, carrying a statue or image of him through the streets, accompanied by songs and prayers.

Offerings: the faithful often bring offerings to St Joseph, such as flowers, food, or symbolic objects, to show their devotion to him.

Food preparation: some communities prepare special dishes to mark the occasion, such as cakes, pastries and traditional dishes.

Prayer vigils: some parishes hold prayer vigils to honour St Joseph, during which the faithful pray together and listen to stories about his life and actions.

Folk festivals

It is important to note that rituals and celebrations may vary according to region and culture, and the faithful may also mark the occasion with more personal celebrations, such as Bible reading or silent prayers.

Prayer to Saint Joseph

Saint Joseph, beloved husband of the Virgin Mary, 

You who were chosen to be the protector and adoptive father of Jesus,

We implore you to guide and protect us.

Help us to follow your example of courage and faith in God,

and to live our lives with the same humility and kindness as you.

Grant us your fatherly blessing and divine grace.

Help us to find peace and strength in difficult times,

and to be witnesses of God's love for all people.

Protect us from all evil and danger,

And guide us on the path of truth and justice.

O Saint Joseph, we thank you for your fidelity to God,

and for your devotion to the Virgin Mary and to Jesus.

Intercede for us with God,

and give us the grace to live always in union with him.

Amen.