This saint was tied with a rope around his neck and dragged him through the city until he was dead

                  April 25 --------------- St. Mark the Evangelist

Most Catholics know that St. Mark was one of the four evangelists who wrote the gospel on the life of Our Lord.  Actually, St. Mark, from the tribe of Levi, was instructed and baptized by St. Peter, himself, from whom he heard the information for the narrative. It was also St. Peter who consecrated St. Mark as Bishop of Alexandria in order to convert its people.

Alexandria was, at that time, a bastion of gross immorality and opulent pursuits. St. Mark's words, imbued with the true spirit of Our Lord, converted many and thereby, generated an immense hatred against him and the Catholic Faith by those who wanted to hold on to their evil ways. 

The high priest of paganism finally seized him, tied a rope around his neck and dragged him through the city until he was dead. He died with the following words on his lips: " Into Thy Hands, I commend my spirit".

All those who follow the example of Our Lord Jesus Christ will be hated by those who are against Him.  History proves this.  Modern man , in general, does not take sides in this truth.  The majority of men today are indifferent.  Consider the apathy in regard to the miracles of Lourdes and Fatima.

Set us ask St. Mark for the grace to fight modern paganism with a resounding "yes" , completely devoid of all shades of indifference.