By Erin McGeever
Did You Know? On February 22, the Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of the Chair of St. Peter. This feast isn’t about a physical chair but rather what it represents—the authority given by Jesus to St. Peter, which has been passed down through the popes for over 2,000 years. The word “chair” comes from the Latin cathedra, meaning the seat of authority.
Originally, there were two separate feasts: one on January 18, marking the tradition that Peter first preached in Rome, and another on February 22, recognizing his leadership in Antioch. These were combined into one feast in 1962 by Pope St. John XXIII. Today, the Church recognizes St. Peter as the first pope and reaffirms that his mission continues through the Holy Father—caring for God’s people, preserving Church teachings and upholding unity.
As we reflect on this feast, let us continue to pray for Pope Francis, who remains in the hospital with double pneumonia but is showing signs of improvement. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops offers this prayer for him:
O God, Shepherd and Ruler of all the faithful, look favorably on your servant Francis, whom you have set at the head of your Church as her shepherd. Grant, we pray, that by word and example he may edify those over whom he has charge, so that, together with the flock entrusted to him, he may attain everlasting life. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
May the Lord grant him strength and healing.
