The Chair of Saint Peter

In the midst of Lent, the Church still finds a few celebratory feast days and solemnities. Perhaps they could be considered oases in the penance of the season. For Saint Peter's Basilica, the Feast of the Chair of Saint Peter, 22 February, is one not to miss. Last year, when the feast fell on a Sunday, the Basilica was the only place in the world where the Feast overruled the Sunday.

In front of the foremost pillar of the left side of the nave, stands a bronze statue of Saint Peter sitting in his chair or the Cathedra, the physical representation of the teaching authority of the Church. Pilgrims for centuries have touched Saint Peter's foot in thankgiving for safe arrival at Saint Peter's, for the blessing of being able to pray at the Heart of the Church.

On the Feast of Saint Peter, the bronze statue is decorated with robes, candles, and a papal tiara. The candles are lit on the Papal Altar. The "Chair of Saint Peter" along the very back wall is covered with candles in celebration of this feast.