Monday, November 23
St. Clement’s Day
Serving as the pastor of the church in Rome just after Peter, Linus, and Cletus at the end of the first century, Clement (c. 100) was one of the greatest stalwarts of the early church. His letters, sermons, and commentaries remain among the best testimonies of the dynamism of the fledgling Christian witness. A constant encouragement to others, he was responsible for the establishment of at least seventy-five churches. His martyrdom apparently occurred on November 23 and as a result, believers have long remembered him on this day. Traditionally celebrated as the first day of winter throughout much of Christendom, this day is generally marked by community or guild suppers where co-workers gather to sing, to roast apples, and to offer mutual encouragement in the faith.
Other than Roman Catholic tradition, what proof is there that Peter founded the church in Rome and was the first pope?
ReplyDeleteThere is no proof that Peter either founded the church in Rome or was a "pope." Indeed, we have good evidence otherwise. But of course, this post doesn't allude to either of those traditional Catholic assertions. On the other hand, we do have pretty substantial evidence that Peter did pastor the church there at one point--and that he was followed in time by Linus, Cletus, and then Clement.
ReplyDeleteDr. Grant,
ReplyDeleteI'm always awed at the way you word things. Your vocabulary has broadened mine some.
I'm a home-schooled senior, a friend of the Dillards, and the daughter of Rob Lipford. I've been looking for some information on New College Franklin, and haven't found anything on majors and minors. Do you think that you could send me a link or something? My email address is arae.autumnobile@gmail.com .
May the Lord bless you and keep you, make His face to shine upon you, and give you peace.
In His grip,
Autumn Lipford