Paul gives a revealing insight into Peter's ministry when he suggests that Peter's wife accompanied him when he was travelling and church building.

On Ash Wednesday, Benedict explained his decision to retire, saying, "I am no longer capable of carrying out Peter's ministry with the strength needed."

Since then a hallmark of Peter's ministry has been his willingness to step out in faith and obedience to the vision God has placed in his heart.

The four Eastern patriarchs affirmed Saint Peter's ministry and death in Rome and the apostolic succession of Roman bishops.

(Preaching has always been a chancy vocation, but in the days of Peter's ministry it was as chancy as that of a Marine platoon sergeant.)

Another would speak up and say, now listen folks, a large number of us in this church were saved under Peter's ministry and had we had our choice we would have had him for pastor.