On the Solemnity of Saintss Peter and Paul we remember that God called a poor fisherman and a zealous Pharisee to fulfill the missionary mandate of the Church. They may seem an unlikely pair, but their love for Christ was the source of their untiring work. Their efforts help spread Christ’s Gospel to Jews, Gentiles and pagans in faraway lands. Yes, even to us in the 21st Century. The following beautiful prayer is from the Preface for the Mass for the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul:
For by your providence
the blessed Apostles Peter and Paul bring us joy:
Peter, foremost in confessing the faith,
Paul, its outstanding preacher,
Peter, who established the early Church from the remnant of Israel,
Paul, master and teacher of the Gentiles that you call.
And so, each in a different way
gathered together the one family of Christ;
and revered together throughout the world,
they share one Martyr’s crown.
On this day, let’s look for ways to spread Christ’s Gospel to those we meet in our lives. Let’s seek small and simple ways like giving a stranger a smile and a greeting or being generous with our time and words. These may be little things, but mighty rivers begin with one drop of rain.