Reflection on the Feast of the Conception of the Forerunner

Just before the end of the liturgical year, we celebrated the Beheading of the Forerunner; now, towards the beginning of the ecclesiastical New Year, we celebrate his conception. The Forerunner goes before in all things, accompanying us with his prayers and feasts, leading us to the Bridegroom and Lamb, the one to whom the Forerunner always points, always bears witness.