“And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it.”
“I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven.”
This reading, Matthew 16:13, was today’s gospel in mass and you could say it really “hit home” for me.
Having just recently returned from Rome and having seen firsthand the sacred church that was built and which houses the Pope, Peter’s direct successor, I felt blessed. I closed my eyes and could picture exactly what the holy place looked and felt like as I took the photos above. I wish I could go back there today.
I also thought about all the other churches I visited in Italy and the fact that the very mass said in my home parish today was also celebrated in them and in Catholic churches around the world. The same miracle that took place in St. Peter’s Basilica also took place in St. Thomas More. Again, so blessed.
While in Rome, I learned that St. Peter’s Square was built in the shape of a key, symbolizing the key to heaven. I pray the blessings I received in it will unlock any pains and doubts I have and open my eyes and my heart to His words and His will.
Beyond Words 