Sts. Peter and Paul

The Rock and the Apostle to the Gentiles, martyred in Rome under Nero, celebrated together since the third century.

The story

Peter, the fisherman who denied Christ three times and was forgiven three times, was crucified upside down on the Vatican Hill. Paul, the persecutor turned tireless missionary, was beheaded on the Ostian Way. Their tombs anchor the two great basilicas of Rome. The Church honors them as one feast because their two vocations built one Church.

What Peter teaches

Christ builds His Church on forgiven sinners. Peter's weakness and Paul's past are no obstacle to grace.

Patronage

Rome, the papacy, missionaries.

Prayer

Sts. Peter and Paul, pillars of the Church, pray for the Holy Father and for the unity of all Christians. Amen.