Collection: 📚 St. Peter (Simon the Apostle, The First Pope)

St. Peter, originally named Simon, was one of the Twelve Apostles chosen by Jesus Christ and is recognized by the Catholic Church as the first Pope. A fisherman from Bethsaida, he and his brother, St. Andrew the Apostle, were called by Jesus to become "fishers of men." Jesus later gave Simon the name Peter (Cephas in Aramaic), meaning "rock," declaring, "You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church" (Matthew 16:18).

Peter was a member of Christ's inner circle, witnessing pivotal moments such as the Transfiguration, the raising of Jairus's daughter, and the Agony in the Garden. Though he famously denied Jesus three times during the Passion, he repented with sincere sorrow and was restored by the risen Christ, who entrusted him with the care of the entire Church: "Feed my sheep" (John 21:15–17).

Following Pentecost, Peter became the principal leader of the Apostles, boldly preaching the Gospel, performing miracles, and guiding the early Church. According to ancient Christian tradition, he eventually traveled to Rome, where he served as its first bishop. During the persecution under Emperor Nero, Peter was martyred by crucifixion. Out of humility, he requested to be crucified upside down, believing himself unworthy to die in the same manner as his Lord.

Lived: c. 1 BC – c. AD 64–67 | Feast Day: June 29 (with St. Paul); Chair of St. Peter: February 22 | Canonized: Pre-Congregation
Patronage: The Universal Church, the papacy, popes, fishermen, net makers, shipbuilders, and Rome.