Today is the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul the Apostles. It serves as a reminder to us of their pivotal roles in the early Church: Peter as the “rock” upon which the Church was built and Paul as the great missionary who spread the Gospel message. It draws us to consider how we are better together.
“Christian tradition has always considered Sts. Peter and Saint Paul to be inseparable: indeed, together, they represent the whole Gospel of Christ.” (Pope Benedict XVI)
In a sermon in the year 395, St. Augustine of Hippo said of Sts. Peter and Paul: “Both apostles share the same feast day, for these two were one; and even though they suffered on different days, they were as one. Peter went first, and Paul followed. And so we celebrate this day made holy for us by the apostles’ blood. Let us embrace what they believed, their life, their labors, their sufferings, their preaching, and their confession of faith.
Prayer to Sts. Peter & Paul
Dear Saints Peter and Paul, please intercede for us and pray for our souls to be strengthened in faith and love, so that we may follow Christ with courage and conviction.
May we be guided by your examples of faithfulness and boldness in spreading the Gospel, and may we share in the eternal joy of heaven with you.
Smitten With Goodness 