Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles

 

My dear parishioners,

God is Good!!!  All the time!!!  And all the time!!!  God is Good!!!

This Sunday, as we celebrate the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul (June 29, 2025), our hearts are drawn to the powerful readings that reveal the steadfast faith of these foundational apostles. The first reading from Acts 12:1–11 recounts Peter’s miraculous escape from prison. King Herod had James killed and arrested Peter, placing him in chains under heavy guard. Yet through fervent prayer of the Church, an angel appeared, woke Peter, broke his chains, and led him safely past guards and an iron gate—liberating him from peril.

In our responsorial Psalm 34, we echo Peter’s confidence: Taste and see the goodness of the LORD implying that the angel of the Lord will rescue those who fear him.

Our second reading, from 2 Timothy 4:6–8,17–18, presents Paul near the end of his life. He testifies, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” He praises the Lord who stood by him and saved him from every threat.

The Gospel from Matthew 16:13–19 marks Peter’s confession of faith. When Jesus asks, “Who do you say that I am?”, Peter boldly replies, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus blesses him, declaring that He will build His Church on this rock, promising power over binding and loosing

These readings unite in a profound message: unwavering trust in God brings deliverance, empowerment, and lasting legacy. Peter and Paul faced persecution, imprisonment, and martyrdom—yet neither wavering. Their faith freed them, guided them, and fortified the early Church.

As modern-day disciples, we are invited to that same trust. Through prayer and fidelity, God’s presence breaks our chains—be they fear, doubt, or suffering. He grants courage to confess Jesus, and builds His Church through our witness. Let us, like Peter and Paul, taste and see the goodness of the Lord.

Excerpts from “Sunday Homily Helps”, is used by permission of Franciscan Media. www.FranciscanMedia.org. All rights reserved

 

Sincerely in Christ,

Fr. Aloysius