The Feast of Saints Peter and Paul is a time to reflect on the lives of these two pivotal apostles and their contributions to the life of the early church. It’s a celebration of their distinct yet complementary roles in spreading the Gospel and building the Christian community. This feast also invites reflection on the nature of faith, forgiveness, and the power of God’s grace working through ordinary individuals with their flaws and strengths. Here’s a deeper look at the reflections this feast inspires: 1. God’s Grace Working Through Human Weakness: Both Peter and Paul had moments of significant weakness and failure. Peter denied Jesus, and Paul persecuted Christians before his conversion. Yet, God chose them to be leaders and foundational figures in the Church. This reminds us that God’s grace can work through our imperfections and that our past mistakes do not define us. 2. The Power of Conversion: Paul’s dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus highlights the transformative power of encountering Christ. This feast encourages us to reflect on our own conversion experiences and to remain open to God’s ongoing work in our lives. 3 Unity in Diversity: Peter and Paul, though different in background and personality, were united in their mission to spread the Gospel. This highlights the importance of unity within the Church, even amidst diversity of gifts and perspectives. 4. The Importance of Witness: Peter and Paul were courageous witnesses to their faith, facing persecution and even death for their beliefs. This inspires us to be bold in our own witness, standing firm in our faith even when it is difficult. 5. Prayer and the Church: The feast also calls us to pray for the Church and its leaders, particularly the Pope, who is seen as the successor of Peter. It reminds us that the Church, though human, is a vessel for God’s grace and a source of strength and guidance. In essence, the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul is a celebration of faith, forgiveness, and the enduring power of God’s love, as revealed through the lives of two extraordinary yet ordinary men. Prayer to St. Peter and Paul: Sts. Peter and Paul: Grant, we pray, O Lord our God, that we may be sustained by the intercession of the blessed Apostles Peter and Paul, that, as through them you gave your Church the foundations of her heavenly office, so through them you may help her to eternal salvation.Peters Pence Collection is been taken up this weekend at all Masses. Peter’s Pence is a tangible sign of the Churches Charity and our own personal charity. The money raised supports the work of Pope Leo particularly in his outreach to the poor and needy of our world. Please use envelope from yearly box A second collection will take place as you leave the church. We ask for no church gate collections this weekend.