Gospel: Matthew 16:13-19
After that, Jesus came to Caesarea Philippi. He asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” They said, “For some of them, you are John the Baptist; for others Elijah, or Jeremiah, or one of the prophets.” Jesus asked them, “But you, who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus replied, “It is well for you, Simon Barjona, for it is not flesh or blood that has revealed this to you, but my Father in heaven. And now I say to you: You are Peter; and on this Rock I will build my Church; and never will the powers of death overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven: whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you unbind on earth shall be unbound in heaven.”
Reflection:
"Our faith is built upon that of the Apostles."
Read: After his arrest, Peter is rescued by an angel, that he might continue his mission. Paul reflects on his activity, as it draws to a close, glad to have witnessed to Christ to the end.
Reflect: In addition to individual feasts, Peter and Paul are united in today’s solemnity, showing their unity of witness both in life and death. Their activity was complementary: Peter as Apostle to the Jews and Paul as Apostle to the Gentiles. Led by God, they bravely faced many dangers, but they were never alone in their trials. They are strengthened by the whole Body of Christ, Head and Members (Eph 1:22-23). In their suffering for Christ, the Church “prayed earnestly” for them, and so we are encouraged to remember that our unity in Christ calls us to pray for one another, especially for those who are suffering for Christ through persecution, illness or sorrow. Our faith is built upon that of the Apostles. Having prayed for Peter and Paul, now that they are in glory, the Church asks them to pray for us, that we might be strengthened in our fidelity to Christ.
Pray: Ask the intercession of Saints Peter and Paul for the needs of the Church.
Act: Look for the prayer intentions of the Holy Father and join him in prayer.
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