Peter and Paul remind us that God’s mercy can turn weakness into witness and failure into faith
by Sister Lynne Marie Simonich
This year we celebrate the Feast of St. Peter and Saint Paul on Sunday, June 29. Did you know that Vatican City celebrates this feast as a public holiday? There are other countries that do this also.
We know that Peter denied knowing Jesus three times before the crucifixion. The Gospel of St. Luke tells us that Peter “wept bitterly” afterwards. After the resurrection, Peter confessed his love and faith in Jesus and went on to lead the early church.
Before his conversion Paul persecuted the early Christians. He turned from being a persecutor to becoming a missionary – spreading the Gospel message wherever he went.
Both Peter and Paul were martyred in Rome. They were offered God’s mercy and turned their lives around. Their stories show us that everyone is capable of change and of doing good. God’s grace and mercy abound for all of us. We are truly blessed.
Thank you Sister Lynn Marie for your wonderful prayer reflection. It's a proof that the Sacrament of Reconciliation is important today, where a person can change their mind or practice when they reflect on the message of Jesus Christ and turn their lives around with the sacramental words of a kind confessor. Fear, ignorance, closed minds and more can keep us stuck and our hearts closed. To me, scripture, the Mass, the Eucharist, and the Rosary can inspire a spiritual turn-around in our lives. A good homily can help, as well. God's mercy is still available if it is extended or offered to us and we are open to receive it. Blessings and Health to you Sister and all who share their faith by word and example. Mike