In the second verse of the hymn, “Church of God, Elect and Glorious”, the last line reads, Let your light so shine around you that God’s name is glorified; and all find fresh hope and purpose in Christ Jesus crucified.
As we celebrate today the solemn feasts of Sts. Peter and Paul, we recognize the uninterrupted succession of popes beginning with St. Peter. St. Peter was given fresh hope, when Jesus stirred his heart. After denying Jesus three times, St. Peter, went on to give his very life for our Lord. He laid down his life for the sheep. We also have fresh hope in our new Holy Father Pope Leo!
St. Paul was converted abruptly to following the Lord, when he was bumped from his horse. After persecuting, the church, he was given fresh hope, and converted the nations to Christianity through his many travels. Eventually, he too gave up his life for Jesus when martyred in Rome, the eternal city.
In 2000, some 25 years this month, I was able to go on a pilgrimage to Rome with my father, Fr. Gary and a group from our parish. I too, was given fresh hope by this experience. Happy feasts of Sts. Peter and Paul. Sts. Peter and Paul, pray for us!