Daily Catholic Lectio
Thu, 22 February 2024
Chair of Saint Peter, Feast
1 Peter 5:1-4. Matthew 16:13-19
Chair of faith
“In Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome, we are struck by the large alabaster window on the back wall of the apse that depicts the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove. Below the window is an ancient wooden chair, believed to have been used by Saint Peter. Surrounding the chair are statues of four early doctors of the Church. Two of them represent the Eastern Church: Saint John Chrysostom and St. Athanasius. Two of them represent the Western Church: Saint Ambrose and Saint Augustine. These great saints represent the universality of the Church, both East and West, as well as the unity of their theological teaching with the authority of the Bishop of Rome. Above the chair are two angels jointly holding the triple crown tiara used by the Bishop of Rome, symbolising that he is the father of kings, governor of the world, and vicar of Christ. In their other hands, each angel holds a key, symbolising the authority of the Bishop of Rome in matters of faith and morals.
Today’s feast celebrates not only that chair as a precious relic from the time of Saint Peter; it also celebrates all that this chair represents. This feast was formally celebrated in Rome as early as the fourth century, but honour for the supremacy of Saint Peter and his successors was celebrated from the moment Jesus entrusted Peter with his unique mission.”
The Rock of the Church: The metaphor of Peter as the rock upon which Christ chose to build His Church signifies the stability, strength, and endurance associated with a solid rock foundation.
Papal Ministry and Unity: the Pope serves as a visible sign of unity in the Church, guiding and shepherding the flock.
Faith in Action: The Feast of the Chair of Saint Peter is not just a historical event but a call to active faith.
Shepherding with Love: Peter shepherded with love; in the first reading, he calls himself a presbyter among the presbyters.
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The Synthesis Report of the Synod, talking about the office of Bishop of Rome, uses three words: ‘synodality,’ ‘collegiality,’ and ‘primacy’. (cf. Jubilee A. D. 2025, bite 37)
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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