Saints Peter and Paul, two important figures in the Catholic Church, offer powerful lessons about conversion, mission, and unity.
Peter, originally a fisherman, was chosen by Christ to be the “rock” upon which the Church would be built. His story shows us the incredible transformative power of God’s grace. He went from impulsively denying Jesus to becoming a steadfast leader. His journey emphasizes the importance of repentance and divine mercy in shaping a holy life.
Paul, formerly Saul the persecutor, experienced a dramatic change after encountering the Risen Christ. He became the “Apostle to the Gentiles.” His extensive missionary journeys and deep theological insights in his Apostolic Letters highlight the universal call for all of us to share the Gospel.
Together, Peter and Paul embody the dual nature of the Church. Peter represents the visible leadership and protector of tradition, while Paul is the passionate evangelist and interpreter of doctrine. Their lives remind us that despite different personalities and paths, everyone is called to serve Christ and build up His Church. The Feast of Saints Peter and Paul celebrates this fundamental unity and their legacy for all believers. Ultimately, their lives inspire us to embrace our own conversions, commit to sharing our faith, and work towards the unity of faith through love.
On my silver jubilee as a priest, I am grateful to God for the unique and profound grace of Knowing, loving, and serving Him and His people in sharing in the ministry of St Peter and Paul entrusted to them by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I am thankful for the extraordinary gift of twenty-five years of priestly ministry. God bless you all.