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THE CHAIR OF ST. PETER FROM THEN TO NOW
On This Rock
The Pope is the successor of St. Peter, the leader of the apostles. Aside from leading the institutional Catholic Church, the Pope serves as a world leader advocating for human dignity and a spiritual father to millions of Christians worldwide.
Join us in reflection on the history of the Papacy and significant Popes throughout the centuries
c. 33 AD
Jesus appoints Peter to the Papacy (Matthew 16:19)
Jesus tells Peter, "You are the rock," instituting Peter as the head of the Apostles and father of the universal Church.
1059 AD
In Nomine Domini issued by Pope Nicholas II
This decree establishes cardinal-bishops as exclusive electors of the pope, developing further what we today recognize as the Conclave
1179 AD
Third Lateran Council requires two-thirds majority
Formalizes supermajority vote in papal elections to prevent schisms.
6th Century
Assertion of Roman primacy over Eastern sees
Popes assert authority over the Byzantine capital in Constantinople, emphasizing Rome's Petrine authority and apostolic succession over other bishoprics.
440–461 AD
Pope Leo I centralizes papal authority
Strengthens papal primacy, paving the way for more structured succession processes.
313 AD
Edict of Milan legalizes Christianity
Roman Emperor Constantine the Great converts, granting religious freedom to Christians. Papal influence grows politically.
c. 96 AD
Clement I issues the First Epistle to the Corinthians
A trend-setting exercise of papal authority beyond Rome, showing Peter’s successors' understanding of their position.
