Where Peter Is, There is the Church – Mary Live with Dr. Mark Miravalle

Ave Maria!

There's much to talk today about the Papacy and the upcoming Synod. How do we keep our peace during challenging times in the Church? Join Dr. Mark Miravalle for his up-to-date analysis in this week's Mary Live.

Mark delves into the significance of the papacy, drawing from the scriptures. The liturgical calendar often references Matthew 16:15-20 - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/matthew/16?15 - where Jesus establishes the papacy. This is complemented by the Old Testament reading from Isaiah 22 - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/isaiah/22, which speaks of Shebna, a royal steward. This stewardship foreshadows the papacy, with the Pope being the vicar of Christ on earth.

In Matthew 16:13-20 - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/matthew/16?13, Jesus asks his disciples about his identity. Peter's response, recognizing Jesus as the Christ, leads to Jesus naming him the rock upon which He will build His church. This passage emphasizes the Pope's role and the assurance that the gates of hell will not prevail against the Church. It's not just about Peter's faith but the office Jesus establishes.

However, Matthew 16:21 - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/matthew/16?21 shows Peter's human side, as he rebukes Jesus for predicting His suffering. Jesus's sharp response differentiates between infallibility (protection from error in doctrine) and impeccability (sinlessness). Popes, like Peter, are fallible humans but are divinely protected from doctrinal error.

Historically, figures like Martin Luther challenged the Pope's authority, leading to divisions in Christianity. Yet, the essence of being Catholic lies in recognizing the Pope's authority, especially in matters of faith and morals. Synods, like the upcoming one in 2023, are important, but the Pope's role remains central. The Church's foundation is Peter and his successors.

In conclusion, as Catholics, we should emulate Mary's obedience to Peter, seeing Jesus in the Pope. The Church's future lies in Mary's intercession, and her messages, like at Fatima, guide us. Let's remain steadfast, avoiding divisive tendencies, and always align with the vicar of Christ in faith and morals. Where Peter is, there is the Church.

00:00 - Introduction
02:03 - The Old Testament background of the papacy
04:12 - The key Scripture passage - Matthew 16:13-20
06:34 - Peter as the rock; the papacy continues to the end of time
08:56 - The difference between infallibility and impeccability
12:34 - Attempts to "save the church from the pope"
15:12 - The importance of assenting to the pope on faith and morals
18:23 - Our Lady's obedience to Peter and the popes

Also on Youtube https://youtu.be/POVYgjr9BZM

and on Mother of All Peoples https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UhOEe6OCgtU

+++ - MLIV 130