Before there was a Vatican, before conclaves, basilicas or Swiss Guards, there was a fisherman from Galilee called Simon. But why did Jesus choose this ordinary man to become Peter, the rock upon which He would build His Church?

Welcome to POPECAST, a new series with Katherine Bennett and Mark Lambert exploring the extraordinary history of the papacy, from St Peter to Pope Leo XIV.

In this introductory episode, we journey back through the Old Testament to discover the biblical foundations of the papacy. From Abraham, Isaac and Jacob to the twelve tribes of Israel, we explore God's covenant with His people, the division of Israel, and the prophecies that foretold its reunification under one King: Jesus Christ.

Along the way, we uncover the significance of Jacob's new name, the promises of Jeremiah and Ezekiel, and the remarkable parallels between the keys of David's kingdom and those entrusted to Peter.

Why does the Church need one visible point of unity? And what did Christ mean when He said, "You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church"?

Join us as we lay the foundations for a journey through 2,000 years of popes, personalities, controversies and Church history.

Scripture explored: Genesis 25–32, Isaiah 22, Jeremiah 31, Ezekiel 36–37, Matthew 16, Romans 1 and Acts 26.

Subscribe to our channel to enjoy POPECAST and join us for the next episode as we explore the life of St Peter, the first Pope. Watch here, on our website https://reginaunscripted.org/ or listen on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7AKihzzJRhr9C5eoDSY8Ho