Vocation Meditation - August 24

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He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Simon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." And Jesus answered him, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven."

Peter's profession of faith, inspired by the Holy Spirit, was a revelation of his important role in the Church. Jesus needed that profession on which He can build His Church. It was THE profession of Jesus' real identity and mission! Having that clear and confirmed, Jesus moved further to grant Peter the Petrine privilege of primacy among the College of Apostles. The Church Jesus established is rock solid in Him in its foundation and its continuity. His power and graces fill its life. No power of evil could ever overcome it. For what purpose? To the Church called the People of God is given the grace of salvation. Peter and his successors with all the bishops and priests, are tasked to dispense these abundant graces Jesus had won for all and for all time. They continue Jesus` salvific mission. With such a great privilege and power in their hands to 'bind and to loose', to lead, to rule and to sanctify God's people, these, humble, chosen servants of God deserve our respect, adherence, prayer and gratitude.

Vocation Challenge:
For more vocations to the priesthood, hear us, O Lord.
How do I promote vocations to the priesthood in my family and in the Church?

For the full Gospel reading for this Sunday, visit the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops site.

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