Saint Mark, also called John Mark, was an early Christian and companion of both Saint Peter and Saint Paul, and is honored as the author of the second Gospel, widely regarded as the earliest written. Tradition holds that he drew much of his Gospel from the preaching of Peter, who called him 'my son Mark,' and that he later founded the Church of Alexandria in Egypt, where he died a martyr.
Mark shows us that a quiet, faithful listener can carry the Good News to the whole world — he simply wrote down, with honesty and care, what he had received. His Gospel moves quickly and tenderly toward the Cross, reminding us that following Jesus means walking with him through suffering into life.
Saint Mark, faithful evangelist, help us to listen well to the voice of Jesus and to share his Good News with courage and love. Pray for us, and for all whom we hold in our hearts.