Saint Jean Baptiste Day

I tell you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John; yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he. (Luke 7:28 NIV)

Saint Jean Baptiste Day

Saint Jean Baptiste Day which is also known as "la Saint-Jean", "St John the Baptist Day", and "Quebec's National Holiday" is a French Canadian holiday that is held annually on June 24. Mostly celebrated in Quebec, this holiday celebrates Saint John the Baptist, a Jewish preacher that baptized Jesus in the River Jordan.

 

On Saint Jean Baptiste Day, celebrations range from large-scale public events such as music concerts, sport tournaments, parades and firework displays to small family events such as barbecues, picnics, yard sales, and bonfires. Church bells can be heard ringing in celebration throughout the day and many people attend public dances.
In 1834, Ludger Duvernay, a very influential journalist of his day celebrated St Patrick's Day in Montreal and was inspired to create a similar event for the French Canadians. He established the Saint Jean Baptiste Society to promote the celebration of Saint Baptiste Day. With the support of the Catholic Church, Saint John the Baptist was designated as the patron Saint of Quebec.

 

by James Apple Jr.

 

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