Let us pray with today’s Gospel Reading (Mark 6:17-29): Memorial of the Beheáding of St. John the Baptist

Lord Jesus Christ,

John did not compromise with sin or remain silent in the face of injustice. Grant us his courage to stand for what is right, even when doing so brings rejection, misunderstanding, or suffering. Keep us faithful to the Gospel when the world invites us to compromise our values for comfort, popularity, or approval.

St. John proclaimed, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” May these words become the prayer of our own hearts. Remove from us pride, selfish ambition, and the desire for human recognition, so that Christ may increase in our lives.

Lord, we pray for all who suffer because they speak the truth or defend justice. Strengthen those who are persecuted for their faith, those who suffer because of their convictions, and those whose voices are silenced by fear, violence, or oppression. Give our leaders wisdom and integrity. May they never abuse their authority or allow pride, anger, pressure, or selfish interests to lead them into injustice.

Lord, forgive us for the times we have remained silent when we should have spoken, compromised when we should have remained faithful, or chosen human approval over Your truth. Through the intercession of St. John the Baptist, give us a courageous faith, a humble heart, and a life rooted in truth. May we have the strength to prepare the way for Christ wherever we are and, like John the Baptist, remain faithful to the end.

St. John the Baptist, fearless witness of Christ, pray for us