Since the sixth century, January 25 has been the date to commemorate the conversion of the great persecutor of Christians into the great missionary of the Gospel. Whatever the original reason for the choice of this date, it is certainly appropriate for us to remember St. Paul during the Epiphany season. Once again, there is an epiphany or manifestation of Christ, this time the revelation of the risen Lord to Paul on the road to Damascus. The glory of this manifestation is blinding in the short term but transforming in the long term.
The Conversion of St. Paul has a personal significance for most believers because Paul became the great apostle to the Gentiles, and the vast majority of Christians are Gentiles. In addition, through St. Paul, we have half the New Testament Scriptures. So on this day, let us give thanks for St. Paul. In the words of the collect, let us follow "the holy doctrine which he taught," and let us consider how we too may participate in Christ's mission to all people.
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