June 29th, today, is the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul. This feast is of ancient origin. It is a public holiday in some countries. Why honor Saints Peter and Paul with a Solemnity? Because the most important accomplishment of Jesus Christ in His mission on earth is the CHURCH! The Church is the Sacrament and Instrument of Salvation. Scripture teaches that the Church is built on the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets. (Cf Ephesians 2: 20). Peter and Paul are joint managing directors of the institution, (Church) in a manner of speaking.
"You are Peter and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it." (Matthew 16: 18)
Peter was made the head of the Church by Jesus Christ Himself. At the same time, he was given the power of the keys. (Matthew 16: 13-19)
"Now I want you to know, brothers, that the gospel preached by me is not of human origin. For I did not receive it from a human being, nor was I taught it, but it came through a revelation of Jesus Christ." (Galatians 1: 11 - 12).
We may call Paul the 13th Apostle, even a super Apostle.
"O God, who on the Solemnity of the Apostles Peter and Paul
give us the noble and holy joy of this day, grant, we pray, that your Church may in all things follow the teaching of those through whom she received the beginnings of right religion.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son." (Collect on the Solemnity of SS Peter and Paul).
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