RBWords

     In the study of American history, certain "founding fathers" are considered so important for their particular views of how our democracy should work that their names are invoked as labels.  Alexander Hamilton is known for his belief in a strong central government.  Thomas Jefferson is known for his belief in the rights of the states.  So, the terms: Hamiltonian and Jeffersonian are invoked in disputes about the role of the federal government in our country - showing a tension that has both good and bad aspects.  The same may be said for our church and the two "founding fathers," Peter and Paul.  Theologians speak of the "Petrine" ministry in referring to the central role of the pope ("Successor to Peter") and to the "Pauline" ministry in emphasizing the missionary and charismatic aspect of the church.

 

     Peter was faced with keeping the little community together in the chaotic period immediately after the death and resurrection of Christ.  Paul came along later and energized the message so that non-Jewish people could understand and accept the gospel and thus spread the faith throughout the known world of the time.  Paul was not afraid to confront Peter over the subject of retaining Jewish observances! [Acts 15 and Galatians 2]  Our current pope, Francis, has been called upon to reform the centralized government called the "Roman curia" to make it more responsive to the individual "churches" around the world.  His own style has been much more charismatic and personal than his immediate predecessor, Benedict XVI.

 

     On this feast of Sts. Peter and Paul, we can celebrate both the Peterine and Pauline aspects of our church and pray that Pope Francis can reconcile both so that the preaching of the gospel can be more effective even as we preserve the truth that Christ has entrusted to us.  AMEN