At a time when the Christian faith was spreading among the Jews and Samaritans, to preach to the Gentiles, the Lord called a great teacher, who was distinguished by great learning. It was the Holy Apostle Paul.

The Apostle Paul was first called Saul. His parents were Jewish. They had Roman citizenship, which was very important at the time, as Roman citizens had all sorts of privileges. The Apostle Paul was born in the city of Tarsus, in Asia Minor. He received his primary education there, and received his final education in Jerusalem.

Saul was a pure and very gifted young man, but by birth a Pharisee. All the Pharisees hated Christians, so Saul hated them too. He believed that he was doing the will of God when he persecuted Christians. Saul took part in the murder of the Holy first Martyr Stephen. He approved of the deed, and guarded the clothes of the murderers. After that, Saul never stopped persecuting Christians.

When Saul heard that there were Christians in Damascus, he went there to deliver them to Jerusalem. On the way he was blinded by a strong light, which blinded him. Saul also heard a voice: “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me?” “Who are you, Lord?” asked Saul. “I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you persecute.” Saul rose, and as he could see nothing, his companions led him to Damascus. In Damascus, the Lord appeared in a dream to Ananias (one of the 70 disciples) and told him to find Paul and baptize him. Ananias found him and laid his hands on the Apostle Paul, whereupon he saw clearly. After that, the Apostle Paul was baptized and began his sermon.

The Apostle Paul made three great preaching trips to the pagan countries of Asia Minor and the Balkans, and also participated in the Apostolic Council. Before the journey, at the command of the Holy spirit, the apostles ordained (ordained) Saul as Bishop (Acts 13). During his travels, the Apostle Paul took with him to help the Apostle Barnabas and Silas of 70. The Apostle Paul had great success in preaching. He founded many Church communities and applauded priests (presbyters). Then, in these communities he wrote messages. Fourteen of these Epistles became part of the Holy Scriptures, the New Testament.