‘I will build my Church …’
This week we celebrate the feast of the two ‘chief apostles’ – Saints Peter and Paul. Both were faithful rocks on whom Jesus built his Church, unshakeable in their belief that Jesus was the Christ, and ever-faithful to the universal mission he gave them. They can greatly encourage us as we, too, try to be Church today, following Jesus as our Lord and Saviour.
The Church prays continuously for Peter throughout his ordeal as he lies enchained in Herod’s prison. But then an angel comes to release him and Peter realises that the Lord really has saved him. (First Reading)
The Psalmist has also been released from his distress, and invites us to glorify God with him. We, too, can trust that the Lord will answer when we seek refuge in him, and will free us from our terrors.
Paul, like Peter, is also in prison, and knows that the end of his life is near. But he rejoices that he has kept faith: God has always been with him in his struggles and will bring him safely home. (Second Reading)
As Peter acknowledges Jesus as the Son of the Living God, Jesus establishes him as the rock on which he will build his Church, and entrusts him with the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven. (Gospel)
This week, as we give thanks for the lives of St Peter and St Paul, we remember their successors: Pope Francis, who inaugurated our Jubilee Year of Hope, and Pope Leo, who now follows him. Together we pray and work for peace in our world.
