Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles

On June 29 we celebrate the feast day of two remarkable apostles who played pivotal roles in the early Church—Sts. Peter and Paul. These two individuals, with their distinct personalities and life journeys, exemplify the transformative power of faith and the enduring message of Christ. Despite their imperfections and past mistakes, God chose Sts. Peter and Paul as instruments to build and spread His Church, leaving us with a profound lesson: He can work through each of us, no matter our shortcomings.

Originally named Simon, St. Peter was a fisherman by trade when Jesus called him to become a disciple. It was upon Peter that Jesus declared He would build His Church, dubbing him “rock” (Matthew 16:18). Throughout their time together, Peter’s impulsive nature often led him to speak before thinking, resulting in some humorous and awkward moments. Nevertheless, his unwavering faith in Christ’s divinity and teachings laid the foundation for his leadership in the early Church.

However, Peter’s journey wasn’t without its trials. In the hours leading up to the crucifixion, fear overcame him, leading to his infamous denial of Jesus three times. Despite this betrayal, Peter experienced the profound mercy of Christ after His resurrection. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, he provided guidance to the early Christian community. His boldness and unwavering dedication to spreading the good news led him to travel far and wide, establishing communities of believers and nurturing their faith.

St. Peter’s role as the first pope highlights his position of leadership within the Church. He exercised his authority with humility and love, guiding the faithful and fostering unity among the early Christians. Peter’s martyrdom, as tradition holds, serves as a testament to his unyielding commitment to Christ. His unwavering faith, even unto death, continues to inspire and strengthen believers to this day.

In contrast to Peter, St. Paul began his journey as an ardent persecutor of Christians. Originally known as Saul, he was a zealous Pharisee who sought to eradicate the fledgling Christian movement. He played a significant role in the stoning of St. Stephen, the Church’s first martyr. However, God had a different plan for him.

In a moment of divine intervention, Jesus appeared to Saul on the road to Damascus, illuminating his heart and transforming his life forever. This encounter led to Saul’s conversion and his subsequent mission as the great apostle to the Gentiles. Renamed Paul, he became a passionate and tireless proclaimer of the Gospel, traveling extensively and establishing numerous Christian communities.

Paul’s letters, included in the New Testament, provide profound insights into the early Church and offer guidance for believers throughout the ages. His teachings on faith, grace, and the unity of believers in Christ continue to shape our understanding of Christian theology. Like Peter, Paul also faced immense persecution for his faith and eventually suffered martyrdom, sealing his commitment to Christ with his blood.

As we reflect on the lives of Sts. Peter and Paul, we are reminded of their human frailties and the transformative power of God’s grace. Their stories offer hope to each one of us. Despite their flaws, they responded to God’s call, allowed their lives to be transformed, and became instrumental in the growth and spread of Christianity.

The experiences of Sts. Peter and Paul serve as a reminder that God can work through ordinary individuals, using their unique talents and weaknesses for His glory. We, too, are called to embrace our faith wholeheartedly, regardless of our imperfections. It is through our vulnerabilities that God’s strength is made perfect.

Patron Saints of …

St. Peter is the patron saint of netmakers, shipbuilders, and fishermen, and locksmiths. St. Paul is the patron saint of the missions, publishers, and writers.

For the Vigil Mass

• First Reading – Acts 3:1-10: On their way to prayer, Peter and John encounter a lifelong cripple begging. Instead of alms, Peter, in Jesus’ name, commands him to walk. Miraculously healed, the man leaps joyously, astonishing all who recognize him.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 19: The heavens and firmament announce God’s glory and deeds. Day to day and night to night, they share wisdom, their message reaching the world’s ends.
• Second Reading – Galatians 1:11-20: The Gospel I preached isn’t human-sourced; it came from Jesus Christ’s revelation. Once a zealous Jew persecuting God’s Church, God’s grace changed me, calling me to proclaim His Son to the Gentiles.
• Gospel – John 21:15-19: Jesus asked Peter three times if he loved him, instructing him each time to care for his followers. Jesus predicted Peter’s future, indicating how he would glorify God, and then told him to follow him.

For Mass during the Day

• First Reading – Acts 12:1-11: Herod imprisoned Peter to appease the Jews. With the Church praying fervently for Peter, an angel appeared, shining light into his cell. Unchained, Peter followed the angel past guards, through self-opening gates, to freedom.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 34: Bless the Lord always, his praise fills my mouth. Join me in exalting His name. He answers, dispels fears, and fills us with joy. The Lord’s angel protects those who fear Him, blessing those who seek refuge.
• Second Reading – 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 17-18: I, Paul, see my end near, but I’ve run my race well, keeping the faith. A crown of righteousness awaits me. The Lord gave me strength, protection, and will guide me to His heavenly Kingdom. Amen.
• Gospel – Matthew 16:13-19: Jesus asks His disciples about the people’s opinions regarding His identity. Simon Peter declares that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. Jesus acknowledges Peter’s revelation, affirming that upon him, whom He calls Peter, He will build His Church, and the powers of death will not overcome it. Jesus entrusts Peter with the keys of the Kingdom, granting him authority to bind and loose matters on earth and in heaven.

Word on Fire: Peter’s Inspired Confession

In this reflection from Bishop Robert Barron for the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, we learn about the significance of Peter’s confession of Jesus as the Son of the living God. The Church is built on this inspired confession, not on popular opinion or personal holiness. Peter and his successors govern the Church through a special charism of the Spirit. This doesn’t mean all of Peter’s decisions are correct, but his confession about Jesus is the foundation. Understanding Jesus as both man and the Son of God is the cornerstone of the Church’s faith and mission.

USCCB Reflection: A Living Faith

In this USCCB reflection for the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, we learn about the importance of tradition in handing on the faith. Tradition is not just received but internalized and shared, renewing it for future generations. Saints Peter and Paul, though different in their journeys, both played crucial roles in spreading Christianity. Peter, known as “The Rock,” developed an unshakable faith, while Paul transformed from a persecutor of Christians to the greatest missionary. Their faith, despite their imperfections, sustained them through trials and is the same faith we celebrate and strive to pass on today.

Word on Fire: The Unyielding Church

Bishop Robert Barron’s reflection for the Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul focuses on Jesus’ declaration that the gates of hell will not prevail against his Church. Contrary to popular interpretation, Jesus portrays the Church as a powerful force that will actively besiege and conquer the kingdom of evil. The integrity of this enduring Church, to be built by Jesus himself, will be secured not by popular opinion or institutional elites but through the charismatic knowledge of the pope regarding the identity of Jesus.

Profession of Faith: Sts. Peter and Paul

In this USCCB video reflection, we honor the roles of Sts. Peter and Paul in the early Church. Jesus chose Peter as the foundation and Paul as the Apostle to the Gentiles. The Gospel poses the question of who Jesus is, and Peter boldly professes him as the Son of God. Peter’s faith becomes the foundation of the Church’s belief in Jesus. Despite his weaknesses, Peter experienced Jesus’ love and call. We are called to deepen our own profession of faith in Jesus. Through trust in God’s ways, we profess our faith in Jesus’ love, guided by the Holy Spirit on our journey of faith.

What date is the Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul?

The Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul is observed annually on June 29. The next date is Saturday June 29, 2024.

What are the Mass readings for the Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul?

For the Vigil Mass on Saturday June 28, 2025
First Reading – Acts 3:1-10: Healing at the Beautiful Gate
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 19: Nature’s Divine Declaration
Second Reading – Galatians 1:11-20: Apostle’s Divine Revelation
Gospel – John 21:15-19: Jesus Restores and Commissions Peter

For Mass during the Day on Sunday June 29, 2025
First Reading – Acts 12:1-11: Peter’s Angelic Deliverance
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 34: Divine Rescue and Joy
Second Reading – 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 17-18: Final Reflections of Faith
Gospel – Matthew 16:13-19: Peter’s Confession and the Foundation of the Church

Who are Sts. Peter and Paul the patron saints of?

St. Peter is the patron saint of netmakers, shipbuilders, and fishermen, and locksmiths. St. Paul is the patron saint of the missions, publishers, and writers.

Who was St. Peter?

St. Peter, originally named Simon, was one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus Christ. He was a fisherman by trade and became the rock upon which Jesus built His Church. Peter became the first pope and played a significant role in the early Christian community.

Why is St. Peter called the “Rock”?

Jesus referred to Peter as the “rock” in Matthew 16:18, saying, “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church.” The name Peter, which means “rock” or “stone” in Greek, symbolizes his foundational role as the first pope and in the establishment and growth of the early Church.

Was St. Peter truly the first pope?

Yes, according to Catholic tradition and belief, St. Peter is considered the first pope. Jesus conferred a special authority and responsibility upon Peter, as indicated in Matthew 16:18-19 when Jesus said, “You are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my Church… I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven.” This statement is interpreted as Jesus appointing Peter as the leader of His Church.

What does it mean for St. Peter to be the first pope?

As the first pope, St. Peter held a position of primacy and authority among the apostles and the early Christian community. He served as the visible head of the Church, guiding and shepherding the faithful. The role of the pope, also known as the Bishop of Rome, is seen as a continuation of Peter’s leadership and carries with it the responsibility to uphold and safeguard the teachings and unity of the Church.

What were some of St. Peter’s notable moments?

St. Peter is known for his enthusiastic yet impulsive nature. He famously walked on water briefly before faltering in his faith (Matthew 14:28-31). He also denied knowing Jesus three times before His crucifixion but later received forgiveness and restoration from Jesus (John 18:15-27). After the resurrection, Peter became a powerful preacher and leader of the early Church.

Who was St. Paul?

St. Paul, originally known as Saul, was a Jewish Pharisee who actively persecuted early Christians. However, he underwent a dramatic conversion after encountering the risen Jesus on the road to Damascus. He became a devoted follower of Christ and went on to become an influential apostle and missionary to the Gentiles.

What are some of St. Paul’s significant contributions?

St. Paul’s letters, known as the Pauline Epistles, are a significant part of the New Testament. These letters offer deep theological insights and practical guidance for the early Christian communities. Paul’s missionary journeys across the Roman Empire helped establish numerous Christian communities and spread the Gospel message.

How did Sts. Peter and Paul die?

According to tradition, St. Peter was martyred in Rome during the reign of Emperor Nero. He was crucified upside down, as he believed himself unworthy to be crucified in the same manner as Jesus. St. Paul was also martyred in Rome, likely beheaded, during the same time period.

Why do we celebrate the feast day of Sts. Peter and Paul on June 29th?

The feast day of Sts. Peter and Paul is celebrated on June 29th to honor their martyrdom and commemorate their significant contributions to the early Church.

How do Sts. Peter and Paul continue to inspire Christians today?

The faith and courage displayed by Sts. Peter and Paul serve as a source of inspiration for Christians. Their journeys remind us that God’s grace can transform lives, even those marred by past mistakes. They teach us the importance of humility, repentance, and unwavering devotion to Christ, even in the face of persecution.

Are Sts. Peter and Paul considered saints?

Yes, both Sts. Peter and Paul are widely venerated as saints within the Catholic Church and many other Christian traditions. They are regarded as pillars of the faith and powerful intercessors for believers.

Can we ask for the intercession of Sts. Peter and Paul?

Yes, Catholics often seek the intercession of Sts. Peter and Paul in their prayers. These saints, known for their close relationship with Christ and their pivotal roles in the early Church, are believed to have a special connection to God and can intercede on behalf of believers.