Orthodox Church celebrates Feast of Saints Peter and Paul

Today, the Orthodox Church commemorates the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, two of the most venerated apostles of Christ, often referred to as the chief apostles.

Saint Peter, originally named Simon, was the elder brother of Saint Andrew the First-Called. Before being called by Jesus, they were fishermen from Bethsaida, a small town near the Sea of Galilee. Because of his strong faith, Christ gave Simon the name Peter, meaning “rock,” symbolizing the steadfast foundation of the Church. Saint Peter was martyred by crucifixion, and according to tradition, he asked to be crucified upside down, feeling unworthy to die in the same manner as Jesus.

Saint Paul, originally named Saul, was born of the tribe of Benjamin. A former persecutor of Christians, Paul underwent a dramatic conversion after being temporarily blinded on the road to Damascus, during which God called him to serve. He went on to become one of the most influential apostles and writers of the New Testament. Saint Paul was martyred by beheading.