Encyclical: Solemnity of Ss Peter & Paul

Encyclical Letter on the
Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul

By Felix Gibbins, Primus of the Ancient Catholic Church
Given on 29th June 2025, the Solemnity of St. Peter and St. Paul

To my venerable brothers in the episcopate, beloved clergy, and all the faithful holding to the Catholic faith: Grace and peace to you in Christ Jesus. On this great feast of the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, we commemorate two pillars of the Church who, though very different in personality and background, were united in their witness to Christ. This day is both a celebration of their martyrdom and legacy, and a call for us to renew our own faith and unity in the Lord. The Feast of the holy Apostles Peter and Paul is “at once a grateful memorial of [these] great witnesses of Jesus Christ and a solemn confession in favour of the one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church”. It reminds us that the Church, in all her rich diversity, is called to be one family of God, just as on Pentecost people of many tongues were united by the Spirit into one community.

Dearly beloved, in this encyclical letter I wish to reflect on the theological significance of Saints Peter and Paul, offer pastoral guidance drawn from their example, and renew our call to unity and faith on this solemn occasion. May the Holy Spirit guide our hearts and minds as we consider the enduring witness of these Apostles and how it speaks to us today.

Saints Peter and Paul: Pillars of the Church

Saint Peter and Saint Paul are rightly called pillars of the Church and apostles of the one Gospel of Christ. Though their paths were distinct, Providence joined them as the twin foundations of the Church’s mission. Saint Peter was a simple fisherman from Galilee, called by Jesus to be the leader of the Twelve; Saint Paul was a learned Pharisee, converted from persecutor to missionary by a vision of the Risen Lord. Each embraced the faith and lived out his apostolate in his own particular way. Peter became the rock upon which Christ built His Church (cf. Mt 16:18) after professing, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God”. Paul became the chosen instrument (cf. Acts 9:15) to carry the Gospel to the nations, declaring at the end of his life: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith”.

Despite their human imperfections, God accomplished great things through them. Peter, who thrice denied the Lord, was mercifully restored by Jesus’ triple question of love and charged to “Feed my sheep” (Jn 21:17). In this we see that no failure is final when met with sincere repentance. As Saint Augustine poignantly observed, Christ allowed Peter to reverse his threefold denial with a threefold confession of love, thus losing in love what he had bound by fear. The Lord entrusted His flock to Peter’s care not because Peter was without fault, but to show that unity is preserved even through a frail human shepherd, and that “when Christ speaks to one man, unity is being commended to us”. Indeed, the Lord endowed Peter with a unique pastoral responsibility so that in him the Church might see a sign of her unity. Saint Augustine teaches that Peter, in receiving the keys of the Kingdom, stood for the Church’s universality and unity – what Christ gave to Peter alone, He gave to the whole Church united in faith.

Saint Paul, for his part, shows how grace can transform a life completely. Once a zealous persecutor of the Church, Paul encountered Christ and was forever changed (cf. Acts 9:1–19). He became the “Apostle to the Gentiles,” tirelessly preaching Christ crucified and risen. The letters of Paul reveal his profound theology and pastoral heart. In moments of trial, he relied not on himself but on the Lord’s grace: “The Lord stood by me and gave me strength… and the Lord will rescue me from every evil and save me for his heavenly kingdom” (2 Tim 4:17-18). His words encourage us to trust in God’s providence in all circumstances. Like Peter, Paul ultimately poured out his life in martyrdom for Christ, witnessing to the supreme love that values fidelity to the Gospel above all else.

Together, Peter and Paul represent the twofold mission of the Church: to tend the flock in unity of true faith (Petrine ministry) and to evangelise all peoples with zeal (Pauline mission). They laboured in different fields – Peter primarily among the Jews, Paul among the Gentiles – yet both proclaimed “the one confession of faith” and were united in martyrdom in Rome. The Church has long celebrated them in one feast, as “there is one day for the passion of two apostles… a single feast for both, for although they suffered on different days, they were as one”. Their blood, shed for Christ, became the seed of unity and a source of strength for the Church. We honour them as inseparable friends of God and co-patrons of the Church, whose intercession sustains us still.

Unity in Diversity: The Concord of the Apostles

One of the deepest lessons the Church learns from Saints Peter and Paul is the value of unity amid diversity. These two apostles were very different in background and temperament. Peter had lived and walked with Jesus from the beginning of His public ministry; Paul encountered Christ only after the Resurrection, in a dramatic way. Peter was a natural leader among the Twelve, while Paul often worked independently, founding new communities. At times, they even disagreed frankly – as when Paul opposed Peter “to his face” over a controversy in Antioch (cf. Gal 2:11). Yet, despite occasional conflicts and differences of perspective, they remained united in the love of Christ and in the mission of the Church. Their relationship, purified by the Holy Spirit, shows what true Christian unity means: not the absence of differences, but a deeper communion that transforms diversity into a source of richness.

In the early Church, the Council of Jerusalem (cf. Acts 15) demonstrated this unity-in-diversity. Peter and Paul, with the other apostles, debated the requirements of the Mosaic law for Gentile converts. Through prayer and fraternal dialogue, the Church reached a consensus guided by the Holy Spirit. This established a model for resolving conflicts in charity and truth. The experiences of Peter and Paul teach us that conflicts can be overcome when we listen to the Holy Spirit and focus on Christ’s truth and mission. Unity does not require uniformity of opinion or background – indeed, Saints Peter and Paul “followed different paths, had different ideas and at times argued… Yet this did not prevent them from living the concordia apostolorum, a fruitful harmony in diversity”. The “communion to which the Lord calls us is a unison of voices and personalities that does not eliminate anyone’s freedom”.

Today, this apostolic harmony is more important than ever. In our parishes and communities, we too have diverse gifts, viewpoints, and cultural backgrounds. This diversity can be a strength if united in faith and charity. Saint Paul likened the Church to a body with many members – different parts but all one body in Christ (cf. 1 Cor 12:12). Saints Peter and Paul exemplify this: one Church built upon the rock of Peter’s confession and enlivened by the fire of Paul’s evangelism. As Pope Leo XIV reflected in a recent homily for this feast, their history shows that the Church’s “communion… is a unison of voices”, a “living communion in the Spirit, a fruitful harmony in diversity”, where distinct charisms all serve the one mission. “Awakened by the Spirit, [this communion] unites differences and builds bridges of unity” so that all gifts “may advance the preaching of the Gospel”.

Therefore, on this solemnity, we are called to renew our commitment to unity. We must strive to heal divisions, whether in our families, our parishes, or within the wider Christian community. Our unity is founded on the truth Peter proclaimed – that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God – and on the Gospel Paul preached – salvation by faith in Jesus Christ. It is unity in the same faith, not in human preferences. In a world fragmented by conflict and inequality, the Church must shine as a sign of unity. “Strangers have become friends; beyond all borders, we recognise ourselves as brothers” in Christ. Our unity, mirroring the unity between Peter and Paul, becomes a powerful witness so that, as Jesus prayed, “that they may all be one… so that the world may believe”.

Let us never forget that true unity is grounded in love and truth. Peter and Paul were only able to be one because they were each one in Christ. Their friendship was not based on natural affinity but on shared faith and the working of grace. This is the “concord of the Apostles”, which we too must emulate. As we honour these saints, may we overcome any bitterness or rivalry among us. United in heart and mind, and respecting our legitimate differences, we will give glory to God and present a more credible witness to the Gospel before the world.

Pastoral Guidance: Living the Apostolic Faith Today

Saints Peter and Paul not only contributed to the foundation of the Church long ago – their lives also offer guidance for us, the faithful, here and now. We face new challenges in living our faith in the modern world, yet the example of the Apostles provides timeless spiritual and pastoral lessons. On this feast, let us consider how we can imitate their virtues and heed their teaching in practical ways:

• Cultivate a Life of Prayer and Trust in God: Both Peter and Paul teach us the importance of prayer and reliance on divine grace. When Herod imprisoned Peter, “the Church was earnestly praying to God for him”, and God sent an angel to free him. This shows us that God works through the prayers of the community, and that we should never underestimate the power of intercessory prayer. Likewise, Paul, in his trials, experienced that “the Lord stood by [him] and strengthened [him]” (2 Tim 4:17). Prayer is the lifeblood of the Church: like the early Christians who prayed for Peter, we should pray for one another’s needs, for our leaders, and for the world. In personal difficulties, never lose trust in the Lord’s nearness. Both Apostles would remind us: cast your cares on the Lord, for He cares for you (cf. 1 Pet 5:7).

• Embrace Conversion and Reconciliation: The stories of Peter and Paul are profoundly human, marked by sin and forgiveness. Peter wept bitterly after his denial, and Paul humbled himself after persecuting the Church. Each man had a conversion of heart – Peter on the lakeshore when Jesus drew forth his triple affirmation of love (Jn 21:15-17), and Paul on the road to Damascus when Christ’s voice called him from error (Acts 9:3-6). From this we learn that holiness is not about never falling, but about always getting up again by God’s mercy. Do not be discouraged by your sins or mistakes. Instead, like Peter and Paul, repent earnestly and accept God’s forgiveness, which restores and commissions you for service. Seek reconciliation – with God in the Sacrament of Penance, and with others through humility and charity. Forgive one another and work to mend broken relationships; this is essential for the unity of the Church.

• Persevere in Proclaiming the Gospel: Saint Paul exhorts us to “preach the word, be urgent in season and out of season” (2 Tim 4:2). Both Apostles remained faithful to their mission despite hardships. Paul endured floggings, imprisonment, and shipwreck; Peter faced misunderstanding, persecution, and eventually crucifixion. Yet, empowered by the Holy Spirit, they did not shrink from bearing witness to Christ. In our time, we are called to the same courageous witness. Evangelisation is not the task of apostles alone, but of every baptised person. We may not all be called to travel to distant lands as Paul did, but each of us can share the Gospel in our own sphere – through acts of love, by sharing our testimony, by teaching the faith to our children, and by embodying Christ’s values in society. The vitality of our faith bears fruit when we actively spread the Good News. As Pope Leo XIV noted, Saints Peter and Paul “inspire us by their openness to new events and readiness to consider new approaches to evangelisation in response to… difficulties”. We too should be open to new ways of ministry and “‘new nets’ for the new evangelisation,” reaching out to those who have not heard or who have strayed.

• Foster Unity and Charity in Community: The Apostles urge us to maintain the “bond of unity” through charity (Eph 4:1-3). We honour Peter and Paul best by striving to be of one heart and mind in our families, parishes, and the Church at large. This means valuing each person’s gifts and perspective, as the Apostles valued each other’s contribution, even when they differed. Avoid factions or cliques in the community; work together, “walking side by side” despite differences. When conflicts arise, address them with honesty “with evangelical frankness” yet with love, always seeking reconciliation and the common good. Moreover, our unity must extend beyond our own circle: let us seek Christian unity with our brothers and sisters of other traditions, as far as possible, through prayer and respectful dialogue, inspired by Christ’s prayer “that they may all be one”. By this shall all people know we are Christ’s disciples. Unity is not maintained by structures alone, but by genuine fraternal love, service, and humility after the example of Jesus. As the First Letter of Peter reminds us: “Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another” (1 Pet 5:5). In practice, this could mean volunteering together in service projects, sharing resources between communities, and being quick to support one another in times of need. In living out such concrete love and unity, we continue the work of Peter and Paul, building up the one Body of Christ.

• Nurture a Living and Faithful Spiritual Life: Finally, Saints Peter and Paul call us to renew the vitality of our faith. It is not enough to venerate them with our lips; we must imitate their total dedication to Christ. We live in a time when many are tempted to let faith become a mere habit or cultural identity. But the example of the Apostles confronts us with Jesus’ question: “Who do you say that I am?” (Mt 16:15). Each of us must answer this daily, not only with words but with our lives. Do we truly centre our life on Christ as they did? Are we willing to take risks for the Gospel, to let the Holy Spirit lead us beyond our comfort zones? Peter and Paul remained ever docile to the Holy Spirit, who constantly renewed their zeal. We too need an “interior renewal”, lest our Christianity become routine. If any of us have grown lukewarm or “tired and stagnant” in faith, let this feast be a moment of grace to rekindle our hearts. Return to Scripture with fresh devotion, as if hearing the Lord anew like Peter by the lakeshore or Paul on the Damascus road. Partake of the Holy Eucharist with faith and reverence – for it is said that the early Christians, taught by the Apostles, knew that “without the Eucharist we cannot live”, even if it meant risking their lives. Draw close to Christ in prayer each day, and let your faith be active through love (Gal 5:6). A vibrant faith, like that of Peter and Paul, will not remain private but will shine in works of mercy and justice, giving hope to others and glory to God.

In all these ways, the lives of Saint Peter and Saint Paul provide a blueprint for Christian living. Their witness invites us not to complacency, but to continual growth in discipleship. They show us that holiness is a journey – a race to be finished (2 Tim 4:7) and a fight of faith to be won – relying always on the grace of Christ which is sufficient for us. Let us take up their mantle by living as faithful disciples and bold apostles in our own time.

A Call to Unity and Renewed Faith

On this Solemnity of St. Peter and St. Paul, I make a heartfelt appeal to all of you, my dear brothers and sisters: let us renew our unity and our faith with fervour. The world today greatly needs the witness of a united Church, a community that lives out the love of God in concrete solidarity. Our unity will inspire faith in others. Jesus prayed “that they may all be one... so that the world may believe” – our harmony and mutual love are meant to be a sign that leads others to believe in Christ. In a society often marked by division and conflict, we are called to be peacemakers and bridge-builders. This means actively seeking reconciliation where there is estrangement, and partnership where there is isolation. I urge our communities within the Ancient Catholic Church to strengthen the bonds of cooperation and fellowship. Work together on common projects of charity and evangelisation. Support one another’s initiatives and respect one another’s differences as gifts. Never allow personal preferences or secondary issues to divide you from the “one faith” we profess, handed down from the Apostles. Unity in essentials, diversity in gifts, and charity in all things – this was the way of Peter and Paul, and it must be ours as well.

At the same time, I urge each of you to rekindle the gift of faith that you have received (cf. 2 Tim 1:6). Faith is not a static treasure to be hidden, but a living reality to be nurtured and shared. Ask yourself, as Jesus asked Peter: “Who is Jesus Christ for me?”. Open your hearts to a deeper personal relationship with the Lord. Do not reduce your Christian identity to a mere tradition of the past – our faith must be alive today, guided by the Holy Spirit and responsive to the signs of the times. The example of the Apostles challenges us to move beyond a comfort-zone religiosity. As has been wisely noted, we must “move beyond a tired and stagnant faith” so as not to let our identity as Christians be reduced to a relic of the past. The Gospel is ever young, ever renewing the Church when we allow it to penetrate our lives. I invite you, especially on this feast, to make an act of faith from the heart: profess anew that Jesus is Lord, and pledge your life to Him again. In union with Peter’s successor and all who confess Christ, let us proclaim with Peter, “Lord, you know that I love you” (Jn 21:15-17) and with Paul, “it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (Gal 2:20).

Dear friends, faith and unity go hand in hand. A shallow or lukewarm faith will not sustain unity, and a divided community will struggle to witness to the faith. But a Church that is united in love and vibrant in faith will shine brightly, attracting many to the Lord. So let this feast be a moment to revive our zeal. I call on each parish, mission, and religious community in our care to organise some act of unity and faith in honour of St. Peter and St. Paul – whether it be an inter-parish celebration, a communal day of prayer, or an outreach to the poor done together – as a tangible sign of our communion. By doing so, we join our voices with those of the Princes of the Apostles in confessing the one Lord and renewing our commitment to His one Church.

Conclusion

Standing in spirit before the witness of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, we give thanks to Almighty God for these great Apostles who laid down their lives for love of Christ and His Church. Their feast is a day of joy and solemnity, a day to remember who we are as Catholics: a people built on the foundation of the Apostles, with Jesus Christ Himself as the cornerstone (cf. Eph 2:20). It is a day to rejoice in the faith that has been handed down to us and to strengthen our resolve to live that faith fully.

As your Primus and shepherd, I encourage you all to take these reflections to heart. May the courage of Peter and Paul inspire us to face our trials with hope. May their zeal for the Gospel ignite in us a new enthusiasm for evangelisation. May their example of mutual respect and cooperation in the Lord help us to foster unity in our communities. And may their faithful witness unto death deepen our own commitment to Christ above all else.

Finally, let us turn to the Blessed Virgin Mary, who gathered with the apostles in prayer and supported the early Church by her presence. May Our Lady, Queen of Apostles, obtain for us the grace to follow in the footsteps of Peter and Paul with fidelity. Through her intercession, may we become ever more “of one heart and soul” (Acts 4:32) in serving her Son.

Entrusting all of you to the loving care of Saints Peter and Paul, I impart my apostolic blessing to you and your families, especially to those who suffer, the sick, and all who are in need. With Peter and Paul as our guides, let us press on in unity and faith, so that in all things “God may be glorified through Jesus Christ” (1 Pet 4:11).

Given at the Oratory of St David on this 29th day of June, in the Year of our Lord 2025, the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles.

The Most Reverend Felix Gibbins OSB Cam
Archbishop and Primus of the Ancient Catholic Church