Today's Feast Day is one that is not commonly talked about or known. It's unique, as it actually celebrates more than one person! Read on for an explanation of the feast day and how to celebrate.
"Why are we celebrating a chair?"
We're not.
But there IS a relic that is recognized as the "chair of Saint Peter"!
"So what are we actually celebrating?"
The person in the chair! Well, kind of.
Jesus told Peter that he was the rock upon which He would build His Church (Matthew 16:18). Peter was the first Pope- the leader of the Church, guided by the Holy Spirit, and servant of the servants of God (aka all of the bishops, priests, etc. that serve the needs of the Church). After Saint Peter was martyred, Linus was the next Pope. Then Cletus. Then Clement. Then Evaristus. Then Alexander. Then Sixtus...... all the way up until our very own Pope Francis. It's been an unbroken succession from Peter until now. Pope Francis is pope number 266.
All of that being said, it's the "position" of the Papacy that we celebrate- the men throughout history, ordained by God and given the honor and duty of leading and shepherding the Church on earth to Heaven.
"How do we celebrate?"
Pray!! Pray for the Pope. Pray for the souls of all the Popes throughout history, and ask for their prayers.
And today, pray especially for Pope Francis, who is suffering tremendously. Pray, thanking God for His gift of the magisterium of the Church and for Apostolic Succession. Because of Jesus' choice to have Peter as the Rock of the Church, He ensured that the Gates of Hell would not prevail, and that His Bride, The Church, will exist into eternity. 🇻🇦🤍
Have more questions? Ask away in the comments!
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