Saint Paul, born Saul, was an enthusiastic and dedicated man to the causes he served. What is most notable is how quickly his passion went from persecuting Christians to being a devout follower of Jesus after an encounter on the road to Damascus.
As a Pharisee, Saul participated feverishly in the persecution of early Christians. He uncovered disciples of Jesus and handed them over to face imprisonment. This is why he found himself on the road to Damascus; another mission to capture and imprison Christians. "For you have heard of my previous way of life in Judaism, how intensely I persecuted the church of God and tried to destroy it. I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people and was extremely zealous for the traditions of my fathers." (Galatians 1:13–14)
Saul was met with a flash of light on his journey and heard a voice speak out to him. "Who are you, Lord?" Saul asked. "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting," he replied. "Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do." Saul was unable to see for three days following the event, so his travelling companions led him into the city. It was here that he regained his sight, strength, and was baptized.
After the conversion, Paul dedicated his life to preaching the word of Christ. He made profound contributions to early Mediterranean Christian communities. During his travels sharing God’s message of love to all, he worked diligently on written accounts of Christian life and insights to guide others on their journey to complete commitment to Christ.
It is believed that Paul died in Rome sometime between the years 64-68. The present-day Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls was built where it is believed his remains were buried.
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