Recognized as two of the most prominent figures in the New Testament, Peter and Paul were far from perfect. Peter was impulsive, plagued by weakness and doubts; Paul was a zealous persecutor of the Church. But despite their flaws, God transformed them for His divine purposes to share the Gospel, provide spiritual leadership, and ultimately bring Him glory.
This week, as we celebrate the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, we invite you to explore five places where they are portrayed in the Basilica.
1. The South Entrance Buttresses
As visitors ascend the marble steps to the main entrance of the Basilica, they are greeted by a towering Roman arch flanked by two buttresses. Made from limestone, each buttress features 13 different biblical figures sculpted by artist Joseph Fleri. Peter is portrayed at the top of the west buttress with the text: “On this rock I will build my church,” while Paul is portrayed parallel to him on the east buttress with the text: “Thou shalt be His witness to all men.”
2. The Mary Memorial Altar
Did you know that the Mary Memorial Altar is made of translucent golden Algerian onyx? Considered the focal point of the Crypt Church, it has been part of the National Shrine for nearly 100 years! This freestanding altar was presented to the National Shrine by the International Federation of Catholic Alumnae on December 8, 1928, and dedicated to Our Lady of the Catacombs.
Along the four sides of the altar 14 small niches were carved, each topped with a scallop. Within each niche, one can find sculptures of Jesus, the 12 apostles (including St. Peter), and St. Paul.
3. The Christ the Good Shepherd Chapel
In the Crypt Church, Peter and Paul are featured in a stained-glass window above the Christ the Good Shepherd Chapel. This window is one of a series of lunette windows in the North Apse focusing on the theme of “the Promise,” highlighting important evangelists, apostles, and disciples that were a part of the early Church. Here, Peter and Paul are portrayed in hues of blue, green, and red; Peter is shown holding a key, while Paul is shown holding a sword.
4. The Crypt Church Rondels
Throughout the 35,000 tiles of the Crypt Church ceiling, you’ll find intricate mosaic rondels depicting different biblical figures. Centered around the theme of fulfillment, the East Apse features portrayals of St. Peter and St. Paul. If you look closely, you can see that behind Peter a rooster is portrayed, while a scroll can be seen behind Paul. The rondels were created by artist Mary Stratton using her signature Pewabic tile technique, which gives them an iridescent appearance.
5. The Second Coming Mosaic
The final place you can find Peter and Paul portrayed in the Basilica is in The Second Coming mosaic in the Great Upper Church. Designed by artist Mary Reardon and installed by Ravenna Mosaic Company, it features a powerful depiction of Christ’s return. At the center, an 18-foot figure of Christ stands with outstretched arms. On the right, the Blessed Mother leads a group of prominent saints towards Jesus, including Peter and Paul. In this portrayal, Peter wears a green robe edged in gold and holds a set of golden keys, while beside him Paul wears a purple robe and grasps a sword.
Source:
Rohling, Geraldine M., PhD, MAEd. The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception: Guide and Tour Book. Washington, D.C.: Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, 2018.
