Duodecim Apostoli

Prince of the Apostles

Given name

Simon bar Jonah

Feast day

June 29 (with Saint Paul)

Symbols

Keys · inverted cross · rooster

New Testament

First and Second Epistles of Peter

Death

Crucified upside down in Rome, c. AD 64–68

Simon, renamed Peter (“Rock”) by Christ, was a fisherman of Galilee and brother of Andrew. Jesus entrusted him with the keys of the Kingdom and primacy among the apostles. Peter denied Christ but was restored and preached boldly at Pentecost. He led the early Church in Jerusalem and Rome, where he was martyred head downward at his own request, deeming himself unworthy to die as his Lord did.

You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church… I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 16:18–19)