RBWords

     Peter and Paul stand as two giant figures in the history and theology of Christian tradition!  They represent more than their individual historical contribution, for they have come to represent two separate but interrelated aspects of the Church.  In that respect we speak of the ""Petrine ministry" of governance and the "Pauline ministry" of missionary preaching.  (Some have added a "Marian" dimension as well, representing merciful care.)

     To give each one of them their historical due, we might note that the first two scriptures today speak of rescues from dangerous situations, and further tradition has both being martyred in Rome.  Almost any kind of full time service in the Church can be dangerous!  In their own lifetimes, however, they were occasionally at odds with each other, especially on the subject of Jewish obsservance and Gentile converts. 

     This tension, in other forms, still exists, depending on the historical period in which we live.  Different popes have emphasized different aspects.  At present, the Pauline missionary thrust seems to be stronger because of Pope Francis' leadership. The imagination is tempted to compose a conversation (argument?) between them now over all that has happened since their time!  At least today we can give them a salute and get on with what they started in the name of Jesus!  AMEN