A reading from the book of the prophet Jeremiah.

The word of the Lord came to me thus, gird your loins, stand up and

tell them all that I command you. Do not be crushed in their account as though I would leave you

crushed before them. For it is I this day who have made you a fortified city, a pillar of iron, a wall of brass against the whole land,

against Judas kings and princes, against its priests and people.

They will fight against you, but will not prevail over you, for I am with you to deliver you, says the Lord.

The word of the Lord. I will sing your salvation. I will sing

your salvation. In you, O Lord, I take refuge. Let me never be put to shame. In your justice,

rescue me and deliver me, incline your ear to me and save me. I will sing

your salvation. Be my rock of refuge, a stronghold to give me safety. For you are my rock and my

fortress. Oh my God, rescue me from the hand of the wicked. I will sing of your salvation. For you are my hope,

O Lord, my trust, O God, from my youth. On you I depend from birth. From my mother's womb,

you are my strength. I will sing of your salvation. My mouth shall declare your justice, day by day, your salvation.

O Lord, you have taught me from my youth until the present I proclaim your wondrous deeds.

I will sing of your salvation. My brothers and sisters, may our Lord be with you. A reading from the

Holy Gospel, according to St. Mark. Herod was the one who had John the Baptist arrested and bound in prison on account of Herodius, the wife of his brother Philip, whom he married.

John had said to Herod, it's not lawful for you to have your brother's wife.

Herodius harbored a grudge against him and wanted to kill him but was unable to do so.

Herod feared John, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man and kept him in custody. When he heard

him speak, he was very much perplexed, yet he liked to listen to him. She had an opportunity one day

when Herod, on his birthday, gave a banquet for his

couriers, his military officers, and the leading men of Galilee. Herodius' own daughter came in and

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