Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul: Celebrations in the Vatican Basilica

Several moments of prayer and celebration are scheduled in St Peter’s Basilica in preparation for the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, celebrated on 29 June. From 20 to 27 June, at 9:00 p.m., the Novena in honour of the Apostle Peter will take place at the Altar of the Chair, as a moment of spiritual preparation for the feast of the patron saints of Rome.

This devotional practice will accompany the faithful towards the Solemnity, offering an opportunity for recollection, meditation and prayer in the place that preserves the memory of the Apostle Peter. Participation is open to all the faithful.

On Sunday, 28 June, at 5:00 p.m., First Vespers of the Solemnity of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul will be celebrated at the Altar of the Chair. Later that evening, at 9:00 p.m., a torchlight prayer vigil in honour of Saints Peter and Paul will take place in St Peter’s Square, presided over by H.E.R. Cardinal Baldassare Reina, Vicar General of His Holiness for the Diocese of Rome.

The route, divided into five stations, will retrace the journey of conversion of the patron saints of the Alma City of Rome, inviting the faithful to set out spiritually in the footsteps of the Apostles.

On Monday, 29 June, at 9:30 a.m., the solemn Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Pope Leo XIV will take place in the Vatican Basilica at the Altar of the Confession. During the Holy Mass, the pallium will be conferred on the metropolitan archbishops appointed over the past year.

The pallium, a stole made of white wool, is a symbol of communion between the Pontiff and the pastors of the local Churches. The pallia are placed at the Tomb of Peter, beneath the Altar of the Confession, highlighting the spiritual bond with the Apostle and with the Church of Rome.

In the afternoon, at 5:00 p.m., Second Vespers of the Solemnity of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul will be celebrated at the Altar of the Chair in the Vatican Basilica.

The celebrations also include the “Quo Vadis” project, a journey-event that follows the historic stages of the presence of the two Apostles in the City, including the Basilica of Santa Pudenziana and the Mamertine Prison.