Like Jesus, the good shepherd (Ps), Peter exhorts his fellow elders to shepherd the flock (1). Like Peter, we are called to confess the Lordship of Jesus (2). Today's feast, attested as early as the mid-fourth century (in the Depositio martyrum), has its roots in the commemoration of dead relatives and friends (Parentalia), celebrated in Rome between 13–22 Feb. At this commemoration, a chair (cathedra) was left empty for particular deceased persons. Since the actual date of St. Peter's death was unknown, it came to be commemorated on 22 Feb., eventually celebrating his taking pastoral responsibility of the Church of Rome. 1 Pt 5:1–4 Ps 23:1–6 Mt 16:13–19