John the Baptist was a great prophet who lived a long time ago. Before John was born, the angel Gabriel proclaimed that God had a special mission for him.
When John grew up, he preached that the Messiah was coming and people should get ready. At the Jordan River he baptized those who wished to find new life in Jesus. He came to be known as John the Baptist. One day, Jesus came to John and asked to be baptized too. The story of John teaches us how the sacrament of Baptism gives us the gifts of God’s grace, life, and love. He is the patron (June 24) of the sacrament of Baptism and of converts.
Saints are real-life heroes of faith who inspire us by their virtues to become more like Christ. In the Saints and Me! series, these beautifully illustrated early-reader books tell the real stories of saints that come to life and connect with today’s children aged 4 to 9.
Barbara Yoffie has been in Catholic education for 35 years as both a primary grades classroom teacher and religion education coordinator. Currently, she is the coordinator of religious education at St. Clement of Rome Elementary School, St. Louis, MO. She is a well-known presenter on a variety of topics, including seasons of the Church year, saints, creative activities, and praying with children. Yoffie has a master’s degree in religious education administration from Loyola University, New Orleans, a bachelor’s degree in art education, and a certificate of religious studies, from Paul VI Institute, St. Louis. She is the author of several pamphlets and booklets on saints and choosing confirmation saints.
Jeff Albrecht has illustrated for Disney, Warner Bros., Marvel, DC Comics, and other entertainment companies. His animation has been seen on Cartoon Network. His Christian illustration credits include Master Books (A is for Adam, N is for Noah), Living Faith Kids, and Concordia Publishing House. He enjoys working in different styles from his studio in the St. Louis area.