Saint Paul is one of the most important and influential of all the saints. Many of his writings are contained in the Canon of the Bible and have influenced the growth and development of the Church since the first century.

St. Paul was originally known as Saul, and he was a Roman citizen and a Pharisee. He even presided over the persecutions of the early Christians and was present at the martyrdom of St. Stephen.

However, Saul experienced a powerful vision that caused him to convert to Christianity while on the road to Damascus. He was duly baptized and took the name Paul.

Paul traveled the world, first to Arabia then back to Damascus. He also visited Jerusalem to see St. Peter, the first pope and pay homage to him. During these travels, he preached ceaselessly, often drawing criticism and ire from those who rebuffed his message. Jews, in particular, hated his preaching as they saw him convert people to Christianity from Judaism.

Glorious Saint Paul, Most zealous apostle, Martyr for the love of Christ, Give us a deep faith, A steadfast hope, A burning love for our Lord, So that we can proclaim with you, ‘It is no longer I who live, But Christ who lives in me.’

Help us to become apostles, Serving the Church with a pure heart, Witnesses to her truth and beauty Amidst the darkness of our days. With you we praise God our Father: ‘To him be the glory, in the ChurchAnd in Christ, Now and forever.’

Amen.