Summer Solstice & Feast of St. John the Baptist

St. Alphonsa Church ^ | Tison Thomas

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John understood that his role was to prepare the way for Christ, and then to step aside: “He must increase, I must decrease” (John 3:30).

The birth of Jesus is celebrated at Christmas (beginning of another quarter) in December—at the Winter Solstice, as the Sun begins to “increase” in day light and the day lights grow longer each day. The Bible indicates that John was born six months before Jesus (Luke 1:26), so his birth celebrates during the Summer Solstice, as the Sun begins to “decrease” in day light and day lights become shorter. Summer Solstice has the longest day light and Winter Solstice has the shortest day light.

Thus, what St. John the Baptist says of his mission – is even reflected in nature – days become shorter after the feast of John the Baptist and days become longer after Christ’s birth – He must increase, I must decrease.

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It is observed and celebrated when saying the rosary in the 2nd “ joyful mystery” known as the Visitation. When the Blessed Mother visited Elizabeth and both as unborn babies reacted to each other while in their mothers womb.

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The solstice was on the 20th