Understanding the Solemnity of   Saints Peter and Paul This Sunday’s solemnity celebrates the most foundational and most important apostles in Christianity. Let’s take a look at their meaning and significance in our own faith lives: 

• Historically, Saints Peter and Paul are recognized for their pivotal roles in the establishment and spread of the Christian Church, in particular the Roman Catholic Church. Peter, a fisherman, was selected by Jesus to be the leader of His disciples and the first pope. Paul, a former persecutor of Christians, underwent a transformation—a dramatic conversion—and became one of the most zealous apostles, spreading the Gospel throughout the Roman Empire.
• Theologically, this solemnity highlights the unity of the Catholic Church, as both saints represent different aspects of the Christian faith—Peter as the apostolic foundation and Paul as the missionary spirit of the Church. Together, they represent the Church’s mission to evangelize and spread the teachings of Christ. 
• Liturgically, our readings this Sunday will highlight the lives and the contributions of Peter and Paul, and there are specific prayers to honor both. 
• Reflection on Church’s Apostolic Mission is seen as the ongoing faithful reflect on their own call to discipleship and the importance of continuing  mission of these two apostles—just consider the various ministries and organizations within the entirety of the Christian faith and in particularly the Catholic faith, parish by parish, diocese by diocese. Today we celebrate the need for unity within our Church, and the importance of Tradition (Peter) and the ongoing mission of the Church (Paul). 
• Cultural impact as represented by both Peter and Paul are illustrated from the early Church (first centuries), having a significant impact on Christian art, culture, literature, and theology. Many churches are dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul, and their lives inspire many, many believers to live out their faith actively (Catholic Action) in the world. 

Thus, today we are asked to remember, recall and to move forward with the celebration of Saints Peter and Paul’s contributions to the Church, and as a reminder of the importance of unity in our faith, and an encouragement for all Christians to engage in the lived apostolic mission of the Catholic Church.