<P> The image of the gates in popular culture is a set of large , white or wrought - iron gates in the clouds , guarded by Saint Peter ( the keeper of the `` keys to the kingdom '' ) . Those not fit to enter heaven are denied entrance at the gates , and descend into Hell . In some versions of this imagery , Peter looks up the deceased 's name in a book , before opening the gate . </P>
<P> The image of the gates in popular culture is a set of large , white or wrought - iron gates in the clouds , guarded by Saint Peter ( the keeper of the `` keys to the kingdom '' ) . Those not fit to enter heaven are denied entrance at the gates , and descend into Hell . In some versions of this imagery , Peter looks up the deceased 's name in a book , before opening the gate . </P>
who do you meet at the pearly gates
who do you meet at the pearly gates
Saint Peter
Saint Peter