Solemnity Sts Peter and Paul

Saints Peter and Paul made a significant contribution to the spread of the Christian faith after the death of Jesus Christ. St Peter is the 'Rock' upon which God built his church, promoting the ministry until he suffered persecution and eventually death. Meanwhile St Paul tirelessly preached the good news to the Gentiles until he was imprisoned and martyred in Rome.

Readings of the day

Acts 12:1-11  Describes how Peter was rescued from prison by an angel.

‘Now I know it is indeed true: the Lord has saved me from the power of Herod.’

Psalm 33:2-9        R. The Lord set me free from all my fears.

2 Tim 4:6-8, 17-18   Outlines Paul's reflection on his devoted life as a follower of Christ.

'All that remains now is the crown of righteousness.’

Matthew's Gospel 16:13-19 Tells about the moment of Peter's profession of faith to Jesus.

'You are the Messiah, the son of the living God...'

Set free by their encounter with Christ

“The Church looks to these two giants of faith and sees two Apostles who set free the power of the Gospel in our world, only because first they themselves had been set free by their encounter with Christ… They were neither judged nor humiliated by Jesus, who instead shared their life with affection and closeness. He does the same with us.”

Pope Francis 29 June 2021

Read more from Pope Francis’ homily on the Solemnity of Sts Peter & Paul HERE

St Paul and St Peter window