Sts. Peter and Paul, Apostles (Feast Day June 29)

First Century

Aside from Jesus, Peter and Paul are the most significant characters in the New Testament. The New Testament clearly shows Peter chosen by Jesus as the leader of the apostles. With James and John, he was privileged to witness the Transfiguration, raising a dead child to life, and the agony in Gethsemane. Jesus cured his mother-in-law. He was sent with John to prepare for the last Passover before Jesus’ death. Jesus appointed Peter the first Pope when he told him, “And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” (Mt 16:18-19)

Paul was dedicated to persecuting the early disciples of Jesus in the area of Jerusalem before his conversion. After his dramatic encounter with Christ on the road to Damascus, Paul traveled all over Asia Minor to proclaim Christ to the Gentiles. He founded numerous churches in Asia Minor and Europe and took advantage of his status as both a Jew and a Roman citizen to minister to both Jewish and Gentile audiences. Thirteen of the twenty-seven books of the New Testament are attributed to St. Paul.

·      What do you think Jesus means when he says, “Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it”?

·      In today’s Gospel, Jesus describes the conditions of discipleship. In your own words, describe a disciple of Jesus.

·      How can you become a better disciple of Jesus?

·      Who do you relate to more…Peter or Paul?

Fireworks

Find a local fireworks display and bring the whole family! Don’t forget to bring blankets, chairs, bug spray, and some snacks! 

“The Barque of Peter” Banana Boats

Reflect on the life of St. Peter as you enjoy this delicious treat!

Bananas

1 bun for every banana

2 Tbsp of Peanut Butter (or other spread of your choice)

Optional toppings (chopped nuts, chocolate, or other toppings you might find on an ice cream sundae)

Begin by toasting your bun. Let the bun cool a bit before spreading the peanut butter (or other spread) on each side. Peel the bananas and place them inside each bun. If you are adding additional toppings, drizzle a little more peanut butter over the banana so that the toppings stay put. Enjoy! 

From https://catholiccuisine.blogspot.com/2013/06/on-solemnity-of-sts-peter-and-paul.html

Prayer for Our Nation

God our Father, giver of life, we entrust the United States of America to your loving care. You are the rock on which this nation was founded. You alone are the true source of our cherished rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Reclaim this land for your glory and dwell among your people.

Send Your Spirit to touch the hearts of our nation's leaders. Open their minds to the great worth of human life and the responsibilities that accompany human freedom. Remind your people that true happiness is rooted in seeking and doing your will. Through the intercession of Mary Immaculate, patroness of our land, grant us the courage to reject the "culture of death." Lead us into a new millennium of life. We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

The sanctuary is the front part of the church from where the Priest stands during Mass. It is usually elevated from where the congregation sits. What do you see in the sanctuary?

Who do you know that needs help right now? Plan a way for your family to help him or her!

St. Peter’s tomb is located deep beneath the altar of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.