Saint Peter
St. Peter, Prince of the Apostles, born Simon (Acts 15:14; 2 Peter 1:1), in Bethsaida (John 1:42, 44), a town on Lake Genesareth, Galilee, (Now Israel). Son of Jonah, he became a disciple of Jesus c. 30 AD. St. Peter and his brother, Andrew were fishermen.
“Come with me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Jesus calling him and his brother Andrew to be disciples. “You are Peter, the Rock; and on this rock I will build my church, and the powers of death shall never conquer it. I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven .” (Matthew 16:18-20).
On many occasions, St. Peter speaks for the other Apostles “We here have left everything to become your followers”, (Matthew 19:27). After the resurrection of Christ he became the leader of the Christian community. Christ gave Peter a special command to “feed my sheep.” (John 21:15-17).
St. Peter taught in Jerusalem, Palestine and Samaria. He preached also in Lydda, Joppa and Caesarea; after, he went to Asia Minor and lived in Corinth. For the last part of his life St. Peter stayed in Rome.
He was crucified with his head downwards at Rome (67?), under Roman Emperor Nero. The remains were placed at a magnificent basilica erected at the foot of the Vatican Hill.
See also
External links
- St. Peter Catholic Encyclopedia.
- The Basilica of St. Peter, Rome