St Paul's College is named for St Paul the Apostle. St Paul was born as Saul of Tarsus in Cilicia (now in Turkey). He is of the most influential of all the saints and his writings have influenced the growth of the Catholic Church since the first century.
St Paul was a Roman citizen and a Pharisee and was actually responsible for the persecution of the early Christians. He was noted to have been present at the martyrdom of St Stephen (first saint and martyr in Christian Theology).
Saul was on his way to Damascus to continue his reign of terror armed with letters from the high priests authorising the arrest of any followers of Christ.
"It happened that while he was travelling to Damascus and approaching the city, suddenly a light from heaven shone all round him. He fell to the ground and then he heard a voice saying, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? Get up an go into the city, and you will be told what you are to do."
(Acts 9:3-6)
Saul was converted as a result of this vision and changed his name to Paul. He went on to become one of the most powerful preachers of the faith. He was a well-educated man driven by passion and a love for Christ and His Church.
Today St Paul is celebrated in the Catholic Church as the patron saint of the missions, writers and publishers.
His feast day is celebrated on June 29th.
