He was born in Bethlehem around 7–4 BC (or, according to other estimates, around 5–6 BC). His mother was the Virgin Mary, and his earthly (adoptive) father was Joseph the carpenter. He spent his childhood and youth in the Galilean town of Nazareth. At about the age of 30, He was baptized in the Jordan River by John the Baptist. He then spent 40 days in the wilderness in prayer and fasting. He gathered 12 disciples (apostles) around Him. He traveled throughout Palestine, preaching the Kingdom of God, healing the sick, and performing miracles.