The passage from the Gospel of Saint Matthew shows that Peter is appointed head of the Church of Christ following his great proclamation of faith in Christ. While he was the leader of the fledgling group, he was also a powerful symbol of unity for the Church that continues to this day. This festival has been celebrated in Rome since the 4th century. It celebrates the unity of the Church under the papacy and the readings recall Christ's choice of Peter as the rock on which he would build the Church.

“You are Peter and on this rock I will build my Church.” (Mt 16:18)

The pulpit of St represented, the pulpit of the faith taught by Peter. It is the symbol of the unity of this teaching of faith throughout the world. The Pope therefore remains the sign of this unity, which is the fundamental prayer of Christ. “That all may be one” (John 17:21).

In a world full of divisions and confusion, the chair of St. Peter invites us to unity in faith in Christ, the Savior of humanity.

Happy holiday

Father Georges