Saint Who?
Saints Who Fostered Vocations to the Priesthood
Saint Peter
Apostle († c. 64)February 22 and June 29
The Catechism of the Catholic Church states: “Holy Orders is the sacrament through which the mission entrusted by Christ to his apostles continues to be exercised in the Church until the end of time: thus it is the sacrament of apostolic ministry” (1536). The life of Peter, chief of the apostles, beautifully illustrates the mystery of priesthood.
It was to Peter, awestruck at the miraculous catch of fish, that Christ spoke the great words Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men (Mt 4:19). After the Resurrection—and another miraculous catch of fish—Peter receives the blessed instruction Feed my sheep (Jn 21:17). Peter’s vocation as the rock on which Christ would build his Church rests so firmly on the commission and prayers of Christ that even his failures become occasion of grace. I have prayed, the Lord assures Peter, that your own faith may not fail; and once you have turned back, you must strengthen your brothers (Lk 22:32).
Peter’s own letters provide wisdom, both practical and mystical, for the clergy. Tend the flock of God in your midst, not by constraint but willingly, as God would have it, not for shameful profit but eagerly. Do not lord it over those assigned to you, but be examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd is revealed, you will receive the unfading crown of glory (1 Pt 5:2-4).
Risen Lord, grant your priests fidelity to
the Chair of Peter and give them the assurance
of your sustaining love.
