Peter

A Galilean fisherman whom Jesus called to follow him, Peter became the leader and spokesman of the Twelve Apostles. Jesus gave him the new name Cephas, meaning rock, and entrusted him with the keys of the kingdom. Though he denied Jesus three times during the Passion, he was restored and went on to shepherd the early Church.

• Also known as: Simon Peter, Cephas, Simon Bar-Jonah, Simon, Rock
• Role: Leader of the Twelve Apostles
• Key Scripture: Matthew 16:16-19, John 21:15-17, Luke 22:54-62

Go deeper in My Daily Bread

Read Peter's full story, the people and places connected to it, and how it speaks into today's readings.