Johns (St.) Day
a festival to commemorate the nativity of John the Baptist. It was observed as early as the 4th century. The birth of John is known to have preceded that of Jesus Christ six months, and June 24 is therefore the day fixed upon for this festival. Augustine had commented upon the peculiarity of observing his birthday rather than his martyrdom, and the Church of Rome seems to have acted on this suggestion: for it set aside also a day, namely, August 29, in commemoration of his beheading; but both his birth and martyrdom are celebrated on the same day in the service of the Church of England, the chief passages relating to his life and death being included in the lessons. (See JOHNS, EVE OF ST).