Many people wonder how one man — the Pope — could hold such a unique place in the worldwide Catholic Church. It’s a question that takes us back to the very beginning of Christianity, to the words and promises of Jesus Himself. The Pope’s role is not a human invention, but a continuation of the mission Christ gave to Saint Peter and his successors.
When Jesus said to Peter, “You are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church” (Matthew 16:18), He was giving him a foundational role. Peter was not the Church’s owner, but its shepherd — called to keep it united and faithful to Christ. The Church believes that the Pope, as the successor of Peter, inherits this same pastoral mission: to strengthen the faith of believers and preserve unity across the world.
Through the centuries, this role has developed not as a symbol of power, but of service. The Pope is often called the Servant of the Servants of God — a title that reminds us that his authority is rooted in love, humility, and the responsibility to care for all souls. He teaches, guides, and guards the Church’s faith, ensuring that what we believe today is the same truth handed down from the apostles.
In a world of many voices and divisions, the Pope stands as a visible sign of unity — a reminder that the Church is one family with one Shepherd. His leadership helps the Church stay centered on Christ, not on opinions or passing trends. When he speaks on matters of faith and morals, he does so not in his own name, but in the name of the Church and the Gospel entrusted to it.
May we remember that the Pope’s role is not about hierarchy or distance, but about service and communion. Through him, Christ continues to gather His flock, calling us to walk together in truth, hope, and love.
— Fr. John Matthew, for Christian Way
