Upon This Rock

Herod's wrath began to rise, Blades drew blood beneath the skies. Saints were hunted, one by one, In the name of hate, the deed was done. Peter chained behind the bars, While soldiers stood beneath the stars. But prayers burned like firelight, In the Church that prayed through night. The darkness thick, the silence tight, But heaven heard that cry for light. A sudden glow, a holy tread— The angel touched the chains of dread. Rise now, prisoner of the flame, God has called you by your name! Steel has no grip when angels lead— And prayer becomes the sword you need. You are Peter — upon this rock I will build My Church, unshaken stock! And the gates of hell shall break and fall— They won't prevail, no, not at all! Through the storm and lion's roar, Paul endured and spoke once more. Crowned in fire, yet full of grace, He saw the path, he ran the race. Chains fell down at angel’s word, Past the guards, no sound was heard. Iron doors opened wide and slow— And freedom’s wind began to blow... 🎸[SOLO: CHAINS OF FIRE] You are Peter — upon this rock I will build My Church, unshaken stock! And the gates of hell shall break and fall— They won't prevail, no, not at all! You are Peter — upon this rock I will build My Church, unshaken stock! And the gates of hell shall break and fall— They won't prevail, no, not at all! Sometimes what weighs is never seen, More than the chains or iron screen… And only he who prays alone, Knows when the angel's fire is shown. ======================= Gospel – June 29, 2025 Acts 12:1–11 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 33 2 Timothy 4:6–8,17–18 Matthew 16:13–19 =======================