Saint Peter as Patron of Fishermen: From the Galilean Boat to the Protection of the Entire Church On the shores of the Sea of Galilee, where the morning mist lies over the water and nets are cast with hope of a catch for two thousand years, begins one of the most extraordinary biographies in human history. Simon, the son of Jonah, was a simple fisherman — such as there were many along the coast in those days. He did not receive an education, he did not come from a noble family, he had neither wealth nor influence. His world consisted of a boat, nets, wind, waves, and the hope of a good catch. But it was this man that Christ called Peter — "The Rock" — and it was on him that He promised to build His Church, according to the Gospel. Thus, the fisherman became an apostle, and the apostle a symbol of faith and patron of those who continue to eke out a living from the depths of the sea. From Simon to Peter: The Calling at the Sea of Galilee In the Gospels, we meet Peter on an ordinary day in his life as a fisherman. He has just finished a hard, unsuccessful night — the nets are empty, which means the day will be difficult and his family will go without food. And then Jesus comes to his boat. He asks Peter to sail a bit further from the shore so that it would be easier to teach the crowd. Peter complies without question. Then Jesus says, "Go deeper and cast your nets for a catch." Peter, as an experienced fisherman, knows that fish are not caught during the day, but he responds, "Master! We have toiled all night and caught nothing, but according to your word, we will cast the net." And a miracle occurs: the net is filled with so many fish that it begins to tear. The catch is so great that the two boats are filled to the brim and begin to sink. At this moment, Peter, overwhelmed with fear and awe, falls to his knees before Jesus and exclaims, "Depart from me, Lord! for I am a sinful man." He feels unworthy to be in the presence of One who commands the elements. But Je ... Read more