Sts. Peter and Paul, Apostles (June 29, 2025)

Today the Church breaks the cycle of Ordinary Time to celebrate the two great apostles, Peter and Paul. Each of them was sent by Jesus to establish his Church on sure foundations – Peter to the Jewish community and Paul to the Gentiles.

Today’s gospel recounts Peter’s profession of faith in Jesus as “the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus uses that opportunity to call Peter “the rock” upon which he will build his Church. Jesus gives him authority to teach and to make decisions for his new community. Jesus knew Peter well. Peter could manifest great faith and love; he could also be impulsive and even deny him. But Jesus knew Peter’s humility and courage that would be needed for the nurturing of this community’s growth.

Jesus revealed himself to Paul later in life on the road to Emmaus. The conversion of Paul from a zealous Pharisee to an ardent disciple of Jesus is a special work of grace. Paul eventually understood that he was to preach the good news to the Gentile world with all the strength the Lord gave him.

Peter and Paul stand out as men of faith and courage, led by the Holy Spirit. You and I are part of the Church whose beginnings were nourished by their lives and ministry. Celebrating their feasts gives us an opportunity to reflect on their lives and learn something more about how we ought to live our life and respond to the Lord’s call to ministry in our daily living.

St. Paul’s example urges us on each day: “I have competed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith.” May the Lord to bring us “safe to his heavenly kingdom.”