Statue Saint Peter Oostkamp

This statue of Saint Peter stands in front of the Saint Peter in the Tires Church in Oostkamp.

According to the New Testament, Peter was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus and leaders in early Christianity. Originally his name was Simon or Simeon. Jesus called him Cephas in Aramaic, which means "rock" and was translated as Petros in Greek. For that reason he is also referred to as Simon Peter or (once) as Simeon Peter. It is not improbable that Peter was given this nickname to distinguish him from the other apostle who was also called Simon.

The New Testament has two letters attributed to Peter, see First letter of Peter and Second letter of Peter.

In the Roman Catholic Church, Peter is considered the first Pope and is also referred to as Saint Peter. The office of Pope is therefore also called "Peter's Office". In Eastern Christianity, Peter is considered the first patriarch.

In art and iconography, Peter can almost always be recognized by the keys of heaven, which symbolize the Peter's ministry. Other attributes include an inverted cross, fishing net and a rooster.

Willem Vandenameele