Ss Peter and Paul — 29 June
The Solemnity of Ss Peter and Paul this Sun-day honours the martyrdom in Rome of the two founding fathers of the Church. St Peter is the rock on which Jesus initiated the Church. St Paul is the first great missionary, through whom the Holy Spirit revealed to the Church that Christian discipleship is not limited by birthright (i.e. converts from Judaism) but accessible to all through faith. Newly appointed Metropolitan Bishops receive the pallium from the Pope on this Solemnity: a woollen garment worn around the neck, symbolising their Office.