![[papal seal]](pope0000.gif "papal seal, featuring the keys as a symbol of Saint Peter")
A symbol of the power and office of the Pope, the successor of Peter, to whom Our Lord said: "And I will give to thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 16).
Also a symbol of the Sacrament of Penance.
Saints and beati with keys as their emblem in art include
- Genevieve who carries the key or keys of Paris
- James the Greater
- Peter the Apostle who is represented sometimes with one, the key of heaven; with two, either of gold or silver, to absolve and to bind; with two, either of gold or iron, to open the gates of heaven and hell; and again with one, symbolizing dominion over heaven, earth, and hell
- Petronilla
- Raymond of Penafort
New Catholic Dictionary
