Brief Thoughts from Bren: Peter, A Leader

There’s a sculpture of Peter at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, holding a hefty set of keys in his left hand, his arm in a sling. It’s easy to see why artist Arnolfo di Cambio depicted him with keys—after all, in Scripture, Christ entrusts him with the Keys of the Kingdom. But why the sling? It serves as a reminder that no mortal has the strength to bear the weight and responsibility of Christ’s mission alone.

Peter’s human frailties are evident throughout the New Testament. He is impulsive, prone to fear, and often slow to understand. Yet, Jesus chooses him to lead that small band of Apostles. Without his community, Peter could not have accomplished all that he did. But it wasn’t mere human effort that set the Church in motion. Christ promised an Advocate, and the Holy Spirit guides the hand that holds the keys.

A good leader recognizes that leadership is not about personal strength or perfection. It is about faithfulness, humility, and reliance on something greater than oneself. Peter wavered on the waves, denied Christ three times, and struggled to grasp the fullness of the Gospel. Yet, he kept returning, kept listening, kept following. True leadership isn’t found in never failing—it’s found in failing, in rising again, in learning, and in surrendering to grace.

Leadership also requires community. Even the strongest, most gifted leader will falter without wisdom around them. Peter had John beside him, Paul to challenge him, and countless believers to carry the mission forward. A wise leader seeks counsel, fosters collaboration, and surrounds themselves with truth-tellers—not sycophants.

And above all, a good leader is led. Peter did not claim the role for himself; he was called to it. He did not rely on his own wisdom; he sought the Spirit’s guidance. He was not above correction; he was shaped by those around him. He did not make them over in his own image. The best leaders do not hoard power—they serve, they listen, and they trust that the true weight of the mission rests in hands far greater than their own.

Christ never promised the Holy Spirit would guide human governments. But any leader—whether in government or not—can learn from Peter’s example. Let’s hope they will.