The Feast of Saints Peter and Paul 2023: Date, History, Facts about Saints

The Feast of Saints Peter and Paul is typically celebrated on June 29, but it is occasionally moved to the following Monday; this year, it will occur on July 3. This official Colombian public holiday is a liturgical celebration commemorating the martyrdom of Saints Peter and Paul. The date is significant because it is the anniversary of their death or the transfer of their relics. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Christianity. Peter and Paul were both members of the 12 Apostles of Jesus Christ.

The background of The Feast of Saints Peter and Paul

The first Pope and founder of the Roman Catholic Church was Saint Peter. St. Paul was largely responsible for the New Testament and is one of the most influential Apostles in the dissemination of Jesus’ teachings and Christianity. In fact, thirteen of the New Testament’s twenty-seven writings are attributed to St. Paul.

According to tradition, Saint Peter was martyred around 64 A.D. during the reign of Emperor Nero. He was executed by crucifixion because he was not a Roman citizen. As he deemed himself unworthy to perish in the same manner as Jesus, he requested to be crucified inverted. He was laid to rest in what would become the Vatican Necropolis, and St. Peter’s Basilica was later constructed over his tomb. Also believed to have been martyred at this time was Saint Paul. He was beheaded and buried outside the ramparts of Rome. Although the church acknowledges that they may not have perished on the same day, tradition holds that they were both martyred by Emperor Nero in Rome on this date.

This is a day of ‘Solemnity,’ which prohibits Catholics from eating meat, even if it occurs on a Friday when fish is typically consumed. Coastal and island communities may decorate their boats in honour and acclaim of St. Peter, who was the patron saint of fishermen. St. Paul was renowned for his craftsmanship. This day is celebrated globally, but it is a significant holiday in Rome. The Vatican, as well as stores, banks, and institutions, are closed. The pontiff celebrates mass while the bronze statue of St. Peter is dressed in traditional garb. Other celebrations include floral arrangements and pyrotechnics.

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5 FACTS ABOUT SAINTS

To become a saint, a formal process known as canonization must be completed, which can take decades or even centuries.

Once a person attains sainthood, their body is regarded as sacred.

Along with their bodies, a saint’s possessions are preserved as relics.

A person, organisation, or location is dedicated to the protection and intercession of a patron saint.

All Saints’ Day is a Christian festivity commemorating and honouring the saints.

THE FEAST OF SAINTS PETER AND PAUL DATES

Year	Date	Day
2022	July 4	Monday
2023	July 3	Monday
2024	July 1	Monday
2025	June 30	Monday
2026	June 29	Monday