Today, July 12, the Orthodox Church commemorates the feast day of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul.

According to the Gospel, Peter was the elder brother of Andrew the First-Called. Before being called by the Lord, they were fishermen in the small town of Bethsaida, located near the Sea of Galilee. Peter’s original name was Simon. Because of his faith, Christ gave him the name Peter, which means “rock.”

The Holy Apostle Paul was originally from the tribe of Benjamin. His name was Saul, and by order of the high priests, he persecuted Christians. By God’s will, he was suddenly struck blind, and during that time the Lord called him to follow Him.

Peter was crucified, and at his request, he was hung upside down. Paul was beheaded.