June 29 marks a day that is recognized around the world but is an especially significant celebration in Rome—the Feast of Sts. Peter and Paul.
This day honors both of these apostles who were martyred in Rome by Emperor Nero. And as the two patron saints of the city, celebrations ensue each year.
On June 29, Pope Francis will preside over a Mass at St. Peter's Basilica at 9:30am. Last year, he used his homily to speak of St. Peter's courageous “yes” to following Jesus.
POPE FRANCIS
It is by following the Lord that we learn about him every day. It is by becoming his disciples and accepting his Word that we become his friends and experience his transforming love. That “immediacy” is important for us as well. If we put off so many things in life, following Jesus cannot be one of them. There, we cannot hesitate. We cannot make excuses.
At this Mass, the Pope usually blesses the pallia of the metropolitan archbishops appointed over the last year. And the statue of St. Peter will be dressed in solemn pontifical vestments, which only happens two days each year.
On this day, the street leading up to St. Peter's Square is often decorated with designs made of flower petals. And after the sun goes down, a fireworks display can be seen near the Vatican, over Castel Sant’Angelo.
AT
