Mark the Evangelist

Mark the Evangelist is the traditional author of the Gospel of Mark, said to be the disciple and interpreter of Saint Peter, and the follower and Apostle of Jesus Christ. According to Eusebius, Mark composed a gospel embodying what he had heard Peter preach. Tradition identifies him with John Mark mentioned as a companion of Saint Paul in Acts, who later is said to have become a disciple of Saint Peter. Mark was believed to have traveled to Alexandria, Egypt and formed a church. He became its first bishop and founder of Christianity in Africa. He died in the eighth year of Nero and was buried there, Annianus succeeding him. His feast day is celebrated on April 25, and his symbol is the lion.