General overview of Saint Peter
Saint Peter, born Simon Bar-Jona, is one of the most important figures in Christianity. A fisherman by trade, he became one of the first disciples of Jesus Christ and was renamed "Peter" (Kephas in Aramaic) by Jesus, meaning "rock." This name change symbolizes the fundamental role he would play in founding the Christian Church, often considered the first pope. Peter is known for his devotion but also for his human weakness, having denied Jesus three times before bitterly repenting. He preached fervently after Jesus' resurrection and became a pillar of the Christian community in Jerusalem.
Correspondence chart of Saint Peter
| Role | First pope and leader of the apostles |
| Patronage | The Catholic Church, fishermen, carpenters |
| Feast | June 29 |
Symbols and appearances of Saint Peter
The traditional attributes of Saint Peter include the crossed keys of the Kingdom of Heaven, symbolizing the spiritual authority Jesus granted him. He is also depicted with an inverted cross, referring to his martyrdom: according to tradition, he was crucified upside down out of respect so as not to die in the same way as Christ. A rooster is often shown beside him to recall his denial during the Passion of Jesus.
Myths of Saint Peter
Among the most well-known episodes in the life of Saint Peter is his threefold denial of Jesus, followed by his repentance. This act of weakness is balanced by his crucial role after Christ's resurrection, when he became one of the main apostles preaching the Gospel. He performed many miracles, such as healing a lame man and raising Tabitha from the dead. According to tradition, he died a martyr in Rome under Emperor Nero, crucified upside down, and his relics rest beneath St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican.
