June 29: Memorial of the Apostles Peter and Paul

On June 29, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Princes of the Apostles Peter and Paul—two pillars of early Christianity. Their lives, work, and martyrdom in Rome continue to shape the history and self-understanding of the Church to this day.

Peter, once a fisherman, was called by Jesus to be the "rock" of the Church. His journey took him to Rome, where, according to tradition, he ended his life as a martyr. Paul, on the other hand, began as a persecutor of Christians but, through his conversion, transformed himself into a fervent missionary and profound theologian. His letters are essential building blocks of the New Testament and retain great theological significance to this day.

Although they had different callings—Peter as shepherd of the early church, Paul as proclaimer of the gospel—they are united by a deep loyalty to Christ. Their shared celebration represents unity in diversity and the interplay of tradition and new beginnings.

In sacred art, especially in Val Gardena woodcarving, Peter and Paul are often depicted using their attributes: Peter with the key, a symbol of the authority vested in him; Paul with the sword, a symbol of his preaching power and martyrdom. The figures radiate dignity and stylish serenity, carved with masterful attention to detail.

Wood carved figures of the apostles Peter and Paul

A wood-carved figure of Saint Paul in the Baroque style can be found here .
The corresponding depiction of Saint Peter in the Baroque style can be found here .

You can discover more traditional depictions in our category of wooden saint figures – carved with great care in the Val Gardena.

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