St. Peter
Prince of the Apostles, First Pope
Feast Day: June 29
Biography
St. Peter, originally Simon bar-Jonah, was a fisherman from Bethsaida called by Jesus to be a 'fisher of men.' He was the first to confess Jesus as the Christ and was given the keys of the kingdom. Despite denying Christ three times during the Passion, the risen Jesus restored him with a threefold commission: 'Feed my sheep.' Peter led the early Church, preached the first sermon at Pentecost, opened the Church to Gentiles, and was martyred in Rome under Nero around 64 AD, traditionally crucified upside down at his own request, feeling unworthy to die as his Lord did.
Patronages
Symbols
Prayer
O Holy Apostle Peter, to whom the Lord entrusted the keys of heaven, strengthen my faith and help me to be a faithful witness to Christ in all circumstances. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Asking for Intercession
Catholics ask saints to pray with us and for us, as we ask friends on earth. St. Peter, who lives in God's presence, intercedes before His throne. Speak from your heart: “St. Peter, please pray for me…” You may also pray the prayer above or include this intention in your Rosary.