Saint Peter (Greek: Πέτρος, Pétros “Rock”, [1] Kephas in Hellenized Aramaic)

[Socjeta Filarmonika San Pietru Banda Birzebbuga A.D.1990]

Saint Peter (Greek: Πέτρος, Pétros “Rock”, [1] Kephas in Hellenized
Aramaic) (c.1–AD 64) was a leader of the early Christian church, who
features prominently in the New Testament Gospels and the Acts of the
Apostles. According to Biblical accounts, he was one of Twelve
Apostles, chosen by Jesus from his first disciples. He was a Galilean
fisherman assigned a leadership role by Jesus (Matthew 16:18), and was
with Jesus during events witnessed by only a few apostles, such as the
Transfiguration.[2] Early Christian writers provided more details
about his life. Roman Catholic tradition states that he was the first
Pope (from 30 AD to 64 AD), the author of two canonical epistles, and
a martyr under Nero, crucified head down, and buried in Rome.[2] His
memoirs are traditionally cited as the source of the Gospel of Mark.

The Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox,
Lutheran Church and Anglican Communion consider Peter a saint.
According to Catholic tradition Peter was the first Bishop of Rome,
therefore the Pope is Peter's successor and the rightful superior of
all other bishops.

In art, he is often depicted holding the keys to the kingdom of heaven
(interpreted by Roman Catholics as the sign of his primacy over the
Church), a reference to Matthew