The Chair of Peter

On February 22, the whole Church celebrates the Chair of St. Peter the Apostle. “The chair represents the authority of St. Peter and his successors: it expresses the unity of the Church founded on the Apostle Peter. This feast originated in the 4th century.” (Cf. Ordo)

Whoever is the one chosen to succeed as bishop of Rome is given the authority by the Church to steer the Church which Jesus Christ founded. This authority is found in the office or function of the Pope. All the faithful are bound to obey and be loyal to him.

As one who guarantees unity of the Church, the See of Peter assures communion among believers. But this privilege and task goes beyond that. Unity and dialogue must be sought even among non-Christians, other religions, indigenous peoples and even non-believers. The Church founded on the Apostle Peter is given the authority to bind and lose.

Let us pray for the leaders of the Church with special intention for the Pope.