Peter (originally Simon) was one of Jesus’ twelve apostles and a prominent leader in the early Christian Church, known for his impulsiveness but also his strong faith. Jesus gave him the name Peter, meaning “rock,” signifying his foundational role. Peter is famous for walking on water, denying Jesus three times, and being restored by him. He eventually became a leader of the early church, preaching to Gentiles and authoring two New Testament epistles. Tradition holds he was martyred in Rome under Emperor Nero.Â