Pope Leo I on Power and Failure

Leo is known as one of the first and most forceful bishops of Rome to claim supremacy based on succession from St. Peter. The most important studies focus on how he expressed this supremacy, especially in letters addressed to other church and imperial officials. Leo was also a conscientious pastor, however, who thought about Peter and his legacy in terms other than supremacy. For example, Leo preached repeatedly about Peter's denial of Christ and subsequent repentance, sometimes in contrast with the failed repentance of Judas. The power Peter derived from his penance, according to Leo, was not only key to his pastoral success but also fundamental to the authority he passed on in the Church. The author focuses on key texts related to the repentance of Peter and Judas and suggests how they may help improve our understanding of Leo's thoughts on penance and justice.