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Feast of Saints Peter and Paul

 

Fallible Humans

June 29th is the Feast Day of Saints Peter and Paul.

Traditionally, the Church celebrates these major feasts with special liturgies and prayers, in great reverence, praise and thanksgiving for their part in the proclamation of the Gospel --good news--of Jesus Christ.

At the same time, we acknowledge they lived complicated lives, and at times, were fallible human beings. As are we all.

When considering some of the history of the church, we often find disagreements among the saints (the people who have served) in the ministry of our Lord.

Why, even Jesus had moments of disagreement within his inner circle and with the community at large.

Peter and Paul were not exempt from disagreements.

At one time, they held conflicting views about who was “in and who was out” in the community of faith. Their conflict centered around the pagan Gentiles--were they truly welcome in the new faith? Did they first needed to be circumcised?

History tells us conflicts about “who is in and who is out” are not limited to the community of faith. They are often found in the secular world as well.

We can all identify with Peter and Paul as saints and sinners.

A quick review:

  • Peter: the one who denied Jesus three times.
    We also are familiar with the three times Jesus asked him, “Do you love me?”
    Jesus never gives up; he continues to call Peter despite past experiences.

  • Paul: has been found at odds with the faith community at large, more recently than in the past. One writer puts it: 'It is not a problem with Paul in what he says--but the way he says it.'
    Paul, even in moments of doubt, finished the race.
    He fought the good fight, and he kept the faith.

We, the Parish of St. John the Baptist, Duncan can be mindful of the saints' lives as patterns to emulate.

Not just saints like Peter and Paul, but also those of more recent days: the former priests of this parish, seen on the “wall of honour” near the church entrance, and the many who have graced these pews over the generations.

May we remain true to the faith.

May we respond as Peter did when Jesus asked, “Do you love me?”
May we, like Paul, fight the good fight, run the race, and keep the faith.

May we continue to renew our faith daily, tending and feeding those for whom we are committed to care.

Saints and sinners alike.

Faithfully,
Archdeacon Brian +

 

Art Work: 
By: Antonis Mor, 1556
Œuvre appartenant au Musée Condé,
Public Domain-https://commons.wikimedia.org