The Holy Apostle Mark, also called John Mark, belonged to the number of the seventy apostles and was a close associate of the Apostles Peter, Paul and Barnabas. He was born in Jerusalem, into the family of the pious Christian Mary, whose house became one of the first places of Christian prayer meetings.
According to church tradition, Mark witnessed the last hours of Christ's earthly life. After Ascension, he actively participated in the missionary work of the apostles. Together with Paul and Barnabas, he preached in Seleucia and Cyprus, then accompanied the Apostle Peter and, with his blessing, went to Egypt, where he founded a Christian community.
His work in Alexandria was of particular importance: here St. Mark not only established the Church, but also laid the foundation for a Christian college, which later became one of the largest centers of theological thought. Here he composed the rite of the liturgy for local Christians.
Around 62-63 in Rome, Saint Mark wrote the Gospel, which, according to ancient authors, is based on the sermon of the Apostle Peter. His text is addressed primarily to the pagans and reveals Christ as the One in whom Divine power is manifested, overcoming human weakness.
Returning to Alexandria, the saint continued his preaching, converting many of the inhabitants to Christ. This provoked the resistance of the pagans. During the divine service, he was captured, tortured, and imprisoned, where he received a comforting vision of the Savior. The next day, after new torments, the holy apostle died with words of prayer, having given his soul to God.
The Church commemorates St. Mark on April 25. His relics were subsequently transferred to Venice, where he is revered as the patron saint of the city.
In the Christian tradition, the evangelist Mark is depicted with a lion, a symbol of the royal dignity and power of Christ. His life and works became an example of apostolic ministry, preaching and faithfulness to the end.