Saint Paul, originally known as Saul, is one of the most influential figures in the history of Christianity. His life is marked by a radical transformation that led him from persecutor of Christians to passionate apostle and zealous evangelist.

Born in Tarsus, Cilicia (now Turkey), around 5 AD, Saul was a pious and learned Jew, trained at the feet of the famous rabbi Gamaliel in Jerusalem. He was fiercely opposed to the new sect of Christians, considering their teaching to be heresy and leading violent persecutions against them.

However, everything changed on the road to Damascus. On his way to Damascus to persecute the Christians, Saul was suddenly blinded by a bright light and heard the voice of the risen Christ asking him, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?" (Acts 9:4). This momentous event brought about an instant conversion in Saul, who then became Paul, the apostle to the nations.

After this mystical experience, Paul devoted himself entirely to spreading the Gospel. He undertook numerous missionary journeys throughout the Greco-Roman world, preaching the Good News and establishing Christian communities. Despite persecution, hardship and danger, he remained steadfast in his faith and dedication to Jesus Christ.

Paul is also famous for his epistles, letters addressed to the first Christian communities, which form an important part of the New Testament. These writings reflect his deep theological reflection, his love for the Church and his passion for spreading the Gospel.

Finally, Paul was imprisoned in Rome for his faith and was martyred around 67 AD, during the reign of Nero. His legacy lives on through the ages, and he is revered as one of the greatest apostles and evangelisers in Christian history.

St Paul's life is a powerful testimony to God's transforming grace. His spectacular conversion and unwavering commitment to the Gospel inspire Christians around the world to follow his example of faith, perseverance and dedication to the cause of Christ.