Peter, Apostle, First Century

Saint Peter was named Simon and he was the brother of Saint Andrew. They were both fishermen in Galilee. Peter’s brother introduced him to Jesus. Peter was a zealous follower of Jesus. He was the first disciple to recognize that Jesus was “the Christ, the Son of the living God.” However, we also know that Peter doubted Jesus when walking on water and betrayed Jesus three times on the night Jesus died.

In spite of Peter’s doubt and betrayal, Jesus recognizes God at work in Peter. Jesus chooses Peter to lead his Church. Jesus said, “You are Peter and upon this rock I will build my church” (Matthew 13:18). As the leader of the Church, Peter endured persecution and imprisonment. Yet, Peter remained faithful. The Acts of the Apostles illustrates his role as head of the Church after the Resurrection and Ascension of Christ. Peter led the Apostles as the first Pope and ensured that the disciples kept the true faith.

St. Peter lived his last years in Rome. He was martyred in the year 64. He was crucified upside-down at his own request, because he claimed he was not worthy to die as Jesus had.

Paul, Apostle, First Century

Before his conversion on the road to Damascus, Paul was known as Saul. Saul was a Jewish pharisee who zealously persecuted Christians.

Paul’s recollection of his amazing conversion is told in the Acts of the Apostles 22:6-16. Saul was traveling to Damascus to persecute the Christian community there. As he was traveling along the road, he was suddenly surrounded by a great light from heaven. He was blinded and fell off his horse. He then heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” He answered, “Who are you, Lord?” Christ said, “I am Jesus of Nazareth whom you are persecuting.” Saul continued to Damascus, where he was baptized and his sight was restored. He took the name Paul and spent the remainder of his life preaching the Gospel fervently.

Saint Paul became the Apostle to the Gentiles, those who were not Jewish. His letters are included in the writings of the New Testament, and through them we learn much about his life and the faith of the early Church.

Eventually, Paul suffered persecution and was imprisoned. He was beheaded in the year 67.

Peter and Paul’s message today: Both Peter and Paul devoted their lives to spreading the Good News. They both led the church and helped it to grow.

• Give an example of one way you spread the Good News.