Saint Paul, formerly known as Saul of Tarsus, was once a fierce persecutor of Christians who zealously sought to destroy the early Church. However, while traveling on the road to Damascus, he encountered the risen Jesus Christ in a blinding vision that forever changed his life. Struck blind for three days, Saul repented and was baptized by Ananias, becoming Paul, one of the greatest missionaries and theologians in Christian history. Filled with the Holy Ghost, he traveled throughout the Roman world preaching the Gospel to both Jews and Gentiles, enduring imprisonment, beatings, shipwrecks, and persecution for the sake of Christ.
Paul authored many of the Epistles found in the New Testament, teaching the faithful about salvation, grace, charity, perseverance, and the mystery of Christ’s Church. His writings continue to shape Christian theology and devotion throughout the world. Though once an enemy of the faith, Paul became one of its boldest defenders, proclaiming: “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” (2 Tim. 4:7) Tradition holds that he was eventually martyred in Rome under Emperor Nero by beheading, receiving the crown of eternal life for his steadfast witness to Christ.
Acts 7:58–8:3
Saul is present at the martyrdom of Saint Stephen and persecutes the early Christians.
Acts 9:1–22
Saul encounters Jesus on the road to Damascus, is struck blind, and later baptized by Ananias.
Acts 13–28
Paul undertakes multiple missionary journeys, preaching throughout the Roman Empire and establishing Christian communities.
Romans 1:16
Paul proclaims that he is not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ.
2 Corinthians 11:23–33
Paul recounts the many sufferings and persecutions he endured for Christ.
Galatians 2:20
Paul teaches about living through faith in Christ: “I live, now not I; but Christ liveth in me.”
2 Timothy 4:6–8
Paul speaks of finishing his mission faithfully as his martyrdom approaches.
2 Peter 3:15–16
Saint Peter refers to Paul’s wisdom and acknowledges his inspired writings.
The Golden Legend – Life of Saint Paul
Describes Paul’s conversion, preaching, miracles, and martyrdom according to Christian tradition.
Patron of:
Missionaries, Evangelists, Writers, Tentmakers, Converts, Theologians
Feast Day:
Conversion of Saint Paul – January 25
Saints Peter and Paul – June 29
Roman Martyrology – June 30
Illustration by: Colton Rompala