Site 23: Venice, Italy
Today as we celebrate this Gospel writer, I can’t help but enjoy Saint Mark’s closeness to Jesus’ mission.
At different times, Mark accompanied both Saints Peter and Paul to assist their ministry, and Mark’s retelling of Jesus’ life in his Gospel demonstrates the depth to which he involved himself with the other followers to assume discipleship spread Christ’s faith.
Timothy calls for Mark to join Luke and him for his help in their ministry when others have left the mission behind, (1Tim 4:11) while Saint Peter recounts that after his rescue from prison by means of an angel, Peter goes to the “house of Mary, the mother of John, whose other name was Mark, where many were gathered together and were praying.” (Acts 12:12). Today’s first reading gives us a glimpse at Mark’s life alongside Peter on the Christian mission as well. I share it with you below, but you can also find it here: 1Peter 5:5-14. 
This great saint is another one that Italy is fortunate enough to honor on its soil. I share with you today, my trip to Venice where Saint Mark’s relics lie in the basilica dedicated to him.
1Peter 5:5-14:
Beloved: Clothe yourselves with humility in your dealings with one another, for: God opposes the proud but bestows favor on the humble.
So humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. Cast all your worries upon him because he cares for you. Be sober and vigilant. Your opponent the Devil is prowling around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, steadfast in faith, knowing that your brothers and sisters throughout the world undergo the same sufferings. The God of all grace who called you to his eternal glory through Christ Jesus will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you after you have suffered a little. To him be dominion forever. Amen.
I write you this briefly through Silvanus, whom I consider a faithful brother, exhorting you and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Remain firm in it. The chosen one at Babylon sends you greeting, as does Mark, my son. Greet one another with a loving kiss. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.
St. Mark, pray for us!
The Pilgrimage 