Peter came from Bethsaida and had a brother, of whom he fished with for work. Peter was introduced to Jesus by his brother, Andrew.
Peter is always referred to as the first disciple. He was at Jesus' side and played a major role in many events. As an example, he was the first to see the risen Lord and defended Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane.
Peter was the first of the apostles to perform miracles under God's name.
What virtues he models
Peter models a virtue of care. He cared
for Jesus and was always by his side. Peter was Jesus' first disciple.
He also models the virtue of respect. Out of respect for Jesus and his doings Peter stood by Jesus and defended him when he was to be taken away. Peter
referred to Jesus as his "Messiah, the son of the living God." He believed he was not worthy to die the same as the Lord. So, he was crucified upside down.
Peter also
displayed a virtue of trust and loyalty. Jesus was able to trust Peter, as he
gave him the keys to heaven. Peter was so loyal to Jesus that he was able to
gain His trust. Peter was always at Jesus' side.
His importance to our Church
Peter is important to our church because he was considered to be the 1st pope. He is recognized as the "Prince of the Apostles".
St. Peter had a basilica named after him. He now has St. Peter's Basilica.
Relics from his tomb have been put under the altar of his basilica.
St. Peter is "the rock" on which Jesus built his church. He is the founder of our line of popes and is part of the basic foundation of the church.
