Celebrating the Chair of St. Peter

1 Pet. 5:1-4, Mt. 16:13-19. Today's feast celebrates St. Peter's teaching authority. The Fathers of the Church used the term - the chair of St. Peter, as a symbol of authority of the Bishops in their local Churches. In today's first reading, Peter exhorts Church leaders to shepherd their flocks with charity: "Be the shepherds of the flock of God that is entrusted to you: watch over it, not simply as a duty but gladly, because God wants it; not for sordid money, but because you are eager to do it. Never be a dictator over any group that is put in your charge, but be an example that the whole flock can follow".

This is mission of charity to the flocks which the Lord entrusted to Peter and Peter in turn entrusted it to each of his successors: to take good care of the flock of God, to confirm the faith of the people of God, to safeguard doctrine and customs and to interpret the truths contained in divine revelation with help of the Holy Spirit. Today's feast gives us a good opportunity to deepen our filial devotion to the Holy Father and to his teachings.

May the Lord who built His Church on the rock of Peter’s faith grant us such a firm foundation, so that we may hold firm in every storm! Amen!! Good morning and have a pleasant day!!!