Conversion of St. Paul- 25 January- Acts 9:1-22

Most contemporary Christians observe very few days except Sundays from the church calendar. One important date that we might observe is  January 25, the traditional commemoration of the Conversion of St. Paul. In Acts 9, Saul the oppressor of Christians meets the living Christ, confesses Him as Lord, and is baptized. He becomes Paul, the great preacher of the Gospel and missionary. 

Although the reason for this date is debatable, since the sixth century, January 25 has been designated for the commemoration of the conversion of the great persecutor of Christians. This commemoration is based on Scripture, and it is certainly appropriate for us to remember St. Paul during the Epiphany season. Paul's conversion involves an epiphany or manifestation of Christ, the revelation of the risen Lord to Paul on the road to Damascus. This manifestation shows forth Christ's glory, transforms Paul, and helps empower the Christian mission in the first century and down through the ages.

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. As indicated in traditional collects for this day, let us follow his example and be witnesses to the truth of Jesus Christ. May we consider how we too may participate in Christ's mission to all people!