The Feast of the Chair of St. Peter
The Vatican website explains that today’s feast highlights the Chair of Saint Peter (Cathedra Petri), symbolizing the mission Jesus entrusted to Peter. The cathedra, a fixed seat of the bishop, is placed in the mother church of a diocese, giving rise to the word “cathedral.” The feast commemorates Peter, martyred as bishop of Rome. The chair symbolizes a bishop’s authority to protect the flock and transmit the teaching of the gospel as successors of the apostles. Members are encouraged to pray for Pope Francis, the bishop of Rome, who occupies the chair of the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the cathedral church of Rome. https://www.marquette.edu/faith/prayers-new-pope.php
Saint Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Solemnity)
On March 19th, the church celebrates the Solemnity of St. Joseph, spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary, patron of Canada and the universal church. On March 25th, the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord is celebrated. In obedience to God’s call, St. Joseph trusted God’s plan for his life, taking Mary as his wife. In his apostolic letter, Patris Corde, Pope Francis describes St. Joseph as a loving, obedient, courageous father, often working in the shadows. He encourages the church to pray to St. Joseph for protection and guidance.