Even though Peter and Paul had their differences, it is a profoundly wise practice of the Catholic Church to celebrate this feast of the two Apostles together. Though some people would separate them and even set them in opposition, that attitude really stems from a later time in Church history. Despite the differences which Paul reports between them, both Apostles were united in their desire to follow Christ and promote the Kingdom of God.

While two Letters are attributed to Peter in the New Testament, and they have their great doctrinal value, it is obvious that Peter's writings cannot compare in overall theological importance with the Letters of St Paul. On the other hand, Jesus personally chose Peter to be the Rock of the Church and give him the mission of Shepherd. When he foretold Peter's denials, he also told him that, after his recovery from these denials, "after he turned again", he was to console and strengthen his brothers and sisters (Lk 22:32). This ministry of consoling and strengthening, given to Peter in the sombre context of foretelling his denials, was shared by Paul, as we see in his Letter. It is, indeed, an essential part of all apostolic work. Since it was to be part of Peter's ministry, it is intrinsic to the Petrine Office of the Pope.