The Beheading of St. John the Baptist, by Michelangelo Caravaggio, 1608

O God, You raised up Saint John the Baptist
to prepare a perfect people for Christ.
Fill Your people with the joy of possessing his grace
and direct the minds of all the faithful
in the way of peace and salvation.

Grant us, as Saint John was martyred for truth and justice,
so we may energetically profess our Faith in You,
and lead others to the Way, the Truth, and Eternal Life.
Amen.