Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Dedication of Basilicas of Peter and Paul

acts 2811-16, 30-31; Psalm 98  The Lord has revealed to the nations his saving power

On Vatican Hill and the Ostian way the tombs of the apostles remain.  From their blood, one upon the cross the other beneath the sword, the faith was spread through out the world. 

Upon the tomb of St. Paul it reads: Apostle Martyr.  The one who was called to be sent to bear witness to love itself.   Both Peter and Paul, a fisherman and tentmaker, exchanged their trades for something greater.  They were consumed by their task and the world has been made the better for it. 

Through their lives, we can say with the psalm, "The Lord has revealed to the nations his saving power."

Today rising high above the ground and towering above Rome, St. Peter's Basilica and St. Paul Outside the Walls remains for all the world to see the victory of God. 

Peter and Paul lived proclaiming the Kingdom and in death the Kingdom continues to be proclaimed. 

Just as their tomb is marked with 'Apostle Martyr' so to we are called to do the same to be sent in to the world and bear witness with our life.

This is how we fulfill our own dedication and consecration as a temple of God thus singing joyfully before the King. 

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