Papież jako świadek Chrystusa

Abstract

Biblical tradition referring to Cephas very clearly points out that already as Peter he was established the Rock of the Church. One of his tasks was to strengthen his brothers in faith and in the fidelity to the witness which one takes upon themselves while accepting faith. This was Peter – the oldest has it – who became the first witness to Christ’s resurrection. His fidelity, despite some difficulties, found its fulfillment in the witness of his martyrdom in Rome. It is clear, that Peter’s enduring office has exclusively religious sense. Peter’s successor has to give witness to the unity of faith and of the Church. However, the most important is Peter’s witness as the follower of Christ. The task of strengthening in faith assumes – at present – a call to ecumenism. The whole Peter’s ministry is duty of love. This witness is not free from suffering and from the dimension of martyrdom.