Newsletter June 29th 2025 / Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles

Mass Readings for the Feast of Ss Peter and Paul,

• First Reading – Acts 12:1-11: Herod imprisoned Peter to appease the Jews. With the Church praying fervently for Peter, an angel appeared, shining light into his cell. Unchained, Peter followed the angel past guards, through self-opening gates, to freedom.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 34: Bless the Lord always, his praise fills my mouth. Join me in exalting His name. He answers, dispels fears, and fills us with joy. The Lord’s angel protects those who fear Him, blessing those who seek refuge.
• Second Reading – 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 17-18: I, Paul, see my end near, but I’ve run my race well, keeping the faith. A crown of righteousness awaits me. The Lord gave me strength, protection, and will guide me to His heavenly Kingdom. Amen.
• Gospel – Matthew 16:13-19: Jesus asks His disciples about the people’s opinions regarding His identity. Simon Peter declares that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. Jesus acknowledges Peter’s revelation, affirming that upon him, whom He calls Peter, He will build His Church, and the powers of death will not overcome it. Jesus entrusts Peter with the keys of the Kingdom, granting him authority to bind and loose matters on earth and in heaven.