In Matthew 14:1-12, we read about the cruel death of St. John the Baptist. John had publicly reprimanded Herod for taking his brother’s wife as his own, so Herod had him imprisoned; and, ultimately beheaded.
I recently learned that the Orthodox Church keeps this day as a strict fast day (i.e. no meat, fish, wine or olive oil). This practice serves as a reminder that Christians are to live a life different from Herod’s path. They also keep the tradition of using bowls instead of dishes on this day since St. John the Baptist’s head was presented to Salome on a platter or dish. One other custom these Christians observe is to serve food that does not requires a knife because a sharp instrument was used to behead St. John.
These traditions are wonderful suggestions to honor St. John’s death–a strict fast, using bowls, don’t serve food that requires a knife. Let’s incorporate one or all three customs to focus on the meaning of this feast day. One last thought, since St. John was Our Lord’s cousin, let’s say a prayer for our cousins.