It goes without saying that we, Paulist Missionaries, hold Pauline spirituality close to our hearts. GC2024, no. 9 affirms that “our spirituality is rooted in the dynamic Pauline spirituality,” while also acknowledging other sources, namely the life and vision of our Founder and the Church’s understanding of mission and evangelization. Our Founder clearly desired that we consider St Paul as one of our principal patron saints, which also implies holding him as a constant source of inspiration for our life and ministry.
During my visits, it has become increasingly aware of the great thirst for deeper formation in our charism, particularly among our Lay Paulists. This resonates strongly with what GC2024, no. 12 states when it affirms that “to ensure that we remain vibrant, relevant, and deeply rooted in our charism and spirituality, formation programmes must ground MSSP religious and lay members in three principal sources,” once again naming Pauline spirituality as one of these foundational sources.
With this in mind, I thought that the celebration of the Solemnity of the Conversion of St Paul could offer us all an opportunity to respond to this need, even if in a modest way. In searching for resources that could help us reflect more deeply on the significance of this Solemnity, I came across two talks – one in English and the other in Spanish. I would like to invite you to watch either (or both) of these talks and allow yourselves to be nourished by the insights these remarkable speakers have to share.
In the English talk, renowned Catholic apologist Scott Hahn presents St Paul as the most influential writer in Christian history, whose encounter with the risen Christ transformed a misdirected zeal into a lifelong, ever-deepening conversion. Paul’s writings – though challenging and at times misunderstood or misused – are presented as inspired Scripture essential for Christian life. Hahn highlights how authentic faith moves beyond human effort towards grace, humility, and mercy, as seen in Paul’s growing self-awareness as “the foremost of sinners.” Particularly inspiring is Hahn’s reflection on the profound friendship between Paul and Luke. Their companionship enabled them, together, to produce more than half of the New Testament. This friendship, Hahn notes, exemplifies the Gospel itself, since Christianity ultimately offers friendship with God, made possible through the Incarnation.
It would be especially meaningful if you were able to watch this talk together as a community, followed by a moment of prayer and sharing. Furthermore, should you be interested in similar resources, please do not hesitate to contact me. I would also be very grateful to receive any such resources that you yourselves may have come across.
O God, who taught the whole world through the preaching of the blessed Apostle Paul, draw us, we pray, nearer to you through the example of him whose conversion we celebrate today, and so make us witnesses to your truth in the world. Through Christ, our Lord. Amen.