Peter, a simple fisherman, was hardly perfect. Scripture describes Peter's fear when Jesus invited him to walk on water. Peter also impulsively severed the ear of one of the men arresting Jesus, and denied Jesus three times during his passion. But Christ chose to build His church on Peter, the first pope. Following Jesus' ascension, Peter proclaimed the Gospel and led the church until his martyrdom in 64 A.D.

Feast Day: June 29

Patronage: Fishermen, Leadership, Popes