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
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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