Keeper of the Keys
Most readers are familiar with the various Gospel accounts of St. Peter as the Apostle specially chosen by Christ to “feed my sheep” (John 21:17). Jesus gave to Peter (not to the other apostles) the keys to the “kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 16:19). His name was changed by Jesus from Simon to Peter, because the name “Peter” translated signifies “Rock,” the very rock upon which, addressing Peter, Jesus said he would build his Church (Matthew 16:18), against which the gates of hell would not prevail. Likewise Jesus said to Peter, and to Peter alone, “Whatever you bind
