The Gospels relate how John the Baptist fearlessly condemned Herod Antipas’ unlawful marriage to Herodias, who had been previously married to his half-brother Philip. Herod had him imprisoned. Pleased with the dance of Salome, the daughter of Herodias, during his birthday party, he promised to grant her anything she desired. She asked for John the Baptist’s head, which was promptly brought to her. Thus the herald of the Lord preceded his Master through his death. – CTS New Daily Roman Missal 2012, p 2956
