April 25th is the feast day of Saint Mark. From tradition and the internal evidence of the 
New Testament, it appears that Mark was an early member of the church who knew both Saint Peter and Saint Paul. He wrote his account of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection probably for readers in Rome. It is said that he later moved to Alexandria and founded the church there. Centuries later, his remains were removed from Egypt to Venice and, since then, Mark has been celebrated as the patron saint of Venice. The imposing Basilica of St. Mark is at the heart of the city. It is pleasing to speculate what we might have done if we had known the first generation of Christians. Mark was in that enviable position and he wrote his gospel for our instruction. Take time and read it this week!